PARTICIPATE FULLY IN ONGOING CONSTITUTIONAL REVIEW PROCESS, KALU URGES NIGERIANS 25-02-24
By Sadiq Aminu Ahead of the inauguration of the constitutional review committee, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr. Benjamin Kalu has called on Nigerians from different ethnic and religious backgrounds to participate fully in the review of the 1999 Constitution to ensure that their views are heard and interest protected under the law.
Mr. Kalu made the call when he received a delegation of Arewa Consultative Progressive Forum which paid him a courtesy visit in Abuja.
The Deputy Speaker called for the jettisoning of primordial sentiments amongst the major tribes of Igbo, Hausa and Yoruba, stressing that national unity should be given paramount consideration at all times.
“I am before you today, not just as the Deputy Speaker, but as a representation of the hopes, dreams, and aspirations of our nation. I hereby reiterate our commitment to fortifying the democratic tenets that bind us together. This commitment is hinged on the principles of equality, justice, and fairness for all, regardless of region, tribe, or religion.”
“I urge you today to develop a pan-Nigerian approach in your deliberations and activities. Let your actions and decisions be guided by the national interest.
He said every Nigerian should be concerned about his or her contribution to the growth and development of the country by being patriotic in the service to the nation.
“As we are doing the constitutional review, I want to assure you there is a place for you. You should participate fully to make sure that the interest of Arewa Consultative Forum is captured in the constitution.”
Mr. Kalu reiterated the commitment of the parliament towards framing policies and enacting legislations that will stimulate the economy and encourage national development.
He told the delegation that a good number of his appointees are from the North, emphasizing that such spirit should dominate the polity.
Earlier in his presentation, the national chairman of the Forum, Alhaji Jibrin Balarabe Madobi told the Deputy Speaker that they were attracted by his exceptional and exemplary leadership styles which he said have endeared Nigerians across all walks of life to him.
Mr. Madobi also encouraged the Deputy Speaker, to keep the good work, appealing to him to use his good office to better the lots of the Forum.