The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Constitution Review, Hon Benjamin Kalu, on Friday claimed none of the proposals received for the creation of 31 new states met the constitutional requirements.
Kalu also revealed that the parliament has received over 200 bills seeking the alterations of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria (as emended).
The Deputy Speaker stated this at the commencement of a 2-day retreat for members of the constitution review committee of the House holding at Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State.
The Deputy Speaker, who is also the Chairman of the Committee, said that the bills reflect the collective commitment to refining governance in Nigeria, with some of them progressing to the second reading stage and others remaining at the first reading at the moment.
The committee’s objectives for the retreat included reviewing bills, incorporating input from consultants, familiarising members with bill contents, prioritising bills based on national interest, and preparing for zonal public hearings and a joint/harmonisation meeting with the Senate.
The bills, already categorised into thematic areas, are aimed at addressing a wide range of issues, including federal structure and power devolution, local government autonomy, public revenue, fiscal federation, revenue allocation, and electoral reforms.
Kalu said: “Distinguished colleagues, currently we have 151 House bills before us. But I’m sure these numbers are the last count before the recent additions. My office has been told that there are about 250 constitutional amendment bills that will pass through the House for this committee.
“This bill reflects our collective commitment to refining governance in Nigeria. While some have progressed to the second reading stage, others remain at the first reading stage. But it is our intention that by the time we are done with our conversation during this retreat, we progress those bills at the first reading stage for them to be given expedited hearing.
“The compilation process has revealed instances of duplication—whether by sponsors or overlapping subject matters.