The Nigerian Senate has commenced its public hearing on the review of the 1999 Constitution in Lagos, with key proposals including the creation of 18 new local government areas, the establishment of state police, and comprehensive electoral reforms up for discussion.
Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central), who also chairs the South-West Zonal Constitution Review Committee, announced the start of the two-day public hearing, emphasizing the importance of public engagement in shaping the future of Nigeria’s governance structure.
According to Bamidele, the Lagos hearing is part of a nationwide constitutional review exercise, with similar sessions being held across the six geopolitical zones, except the North-West, where the hearing has been postponed due to the death of prominent Kano businessman and philanthropist, Alhaji Aminu Dantata.
“This process is aimed at providing a platform for Nigerians to openly contribute to key national issues, especially those that touch directly on the effectiveness of our federal structure,” Bamidele said in a statement.
He added that the Senate is committed to ensuring that citizens’ views are incorporated into the ongoing efforts to amend the constitution.
The proposed amendments, which include the decentralization of police operations, restructuring of Nigeria’s electoral framework, and adjustments to local governance, are considered crucial in addressing long-standing concerns around security, representation, and democratic integrity.
Bamidele stressed that the zonal hearings reflect the Senate’s resolve to carry citizens along in national decision-making, particularly in matters that impact the country’s political and institutional development.
