Southwest Governors, Stakeholders Present Position Papers on 1999 Constitution Review

Governors of Ondo, Ekiti, and Osun States, alongside traditional rulers, women groups, and professional bodies have presented a common front on key issues regarding the ongoing review of the 1999 Constitution.

Their positions were submitted to the House of Representatives Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution (Southwest Centre B), at a public hearing held in Akure, the Ondo State capital.

Declaring the hearing open, Ondo State Governor, Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, emphasized on constitutional amendments that reflect current realities.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Abiodun Oyebanji, represented by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Dayo Apata, called for equal political representation for women and persons with disabilities, recognition of traditional rulers, and restrictions on the indiscriminate movement of cattle.

Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, represented by Deputy Governor , Mr. Kola Adewusi advocated reduction in cost of governance and political campaigns, warning that unregulated campaign expenses could lead to desperation and electoral malpractice.

Olowo of Owo and Chairman, Ondo State Council of Obas, Oba Gbadegesin Ogunoye advocated constitutional recognition of monarchs and inclusion in policymaking processes.

The Chairperson of the Nigerian League of Women Voters, Mrs. Titilayo Owolabi, submitted a petition with 33,000 signatures, demanding greater inclusion of women in governance and political participation.

Earlier, the chairman of the forum and lawmaker from Lagos State at the house of representatives, Mr James Faleke disclosed that the purpose of the public hearing was to collate the views of citizens across the Southwest for constitution draft that would meet the people’s yearnings for development, equity, and justice.

Other stakeholders, including the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) and the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), also submitted memoranda in areas of interest for amendment of the 1999 Constitution.

Among dignittries at the occasion included the Ondo state deputy governor Dr Olayide Adelami,APC chairman in Ondo state Mr Ade Adetimehin, politicians from the three southwest states among others.