The Nigerian Senate has commenced its public hearing on the review of the 1999 Constitution in Lagos today, with key national issues such as state police, local government creation, and electoral reforms topping the agenda.
The Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central), who also chairs the South-West Zonal Constitution Review Committee, made the announcement in a statement on Wednesday.
According to him, the review will address several important proposals, including the creation of 18 new local government areas, the introduction of state police, and reforms to strengthen the electoral process.
Senator Bamidele described the forum as an important opportunity for Nigerians to contribute directly to shaping the nation’s governance structure.
“This hearing provides a platform for the people to speak on the direction the Constitution should take to address current challenges and improve our democracy,” he said.
To ensure wider participation, similar hearings are taking place across other geopolitical zones of the country, except the North-West. The hearing in that region was postponed following the death of prominent Kano businessman and philanthropist, Alhaji Aminu Dantata, who passed away on Saturday.
The Lagos hearing will span two days, with civil society groups, legal experts, traditional rulers, and the general public expected to participate actively.