By Our Reporter
ABUJA (PRECISE POST) – The House of Representatives Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution held its North Central Zonal Public Hearing on Friday at the Ali Akwe Doma Banquet Hall in Lafia, Nasarawa State.
Precise Post recalls that the session brought together delegates from Nasarawa, Benue, Plateau States, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to voice key constitutional demands.
Chaired by Rt. Hon. Ahmed Idris, head of the North Central Center B of the constitutional review process, the hearing marked a critical step in aligning the Constitution with the aspirations of Nigerians.
Representatives of the governors from the participating states, Barr. Isaac Danladi (Nasarawa), Barr. Philemon Dafi (Plateau), and Barr. Fedelix Mnyim (Benue), delivered goodwill messages before presenting their states’ formal positions on key national issues.
Among the top demands raised were: Increased empowerment and political representation for women; Establishment of state police to address local security challenges, Full recognition of the FCT as a state with its own legislative body and Comprehensive electoral reforms to guarantee credible elections
The hearing drew participants from a broad spectrum of society, including traditional rulers, religious leaders, academics, civil society groups, labor unions, youth associations, and women’s organizations.
Calls for a people-centered constitution resonated strongly throughout the session. Women leaders pressed for gender equity in governance, while youth representatives demanded inclusion, innovation-driven policies, and job creation. Nearly all participants backed the establishment of state police as a solution to growing insecurity, especially in rural communities.
There was also a strong push for the FCT to gain full state-like status, including a dedicated House of Assembly, to reflect its central role in national affairs.
Chairman Rt. Hon. Idris praised the quality of the contributions and assured participants that their positions would be reflected in the committee’s final report. He reiterated the National Assembly’s commitment to delivering a constitution that promotes unity, justice, and good governance.
The North Central session in Lafia concluded with renewed calls for inclusive governance and a constitutional framework that upholds the rights and aspirations of all Nigerians. Similar hearings are ongoing in the other five geopolitical zones of the country.
