The Deputy Chief Whip of the Senate, Senator Peter Onyekachi Nwebonyi, has rejected recent calls by a group known as The Patriots to completely discard the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria.
Speaking during a live interview on Arise TV Prime Time on Thursday night, the lawmaker representing Ebonyi North Senatorial District described the 1999 Constitution as a product of Nigeria’s military past, but argued that many of its provisions still hold value.
“While the constitution has its flaws, there are parts that still stand the test of time. Rather than discard it, Nigerians should freely express the areas that need amendment,” Nwebonyi said.
The interview comes amid ongoing efforts by the National Assembly to amend sections of the constitution. Senator Nwebonyi, who chairs the South East Zonal Public Hearing on the Constitutional Amendment held on July 4–5, said his committee received strong calls from the region for state creation, state police, and devolution of power.
He stressed that the South East is the only geopolitical zone with five states, unlike other zones with six or seven, and therefore deserves an additional state to promote fairness and balance in the federation.
“This is not just a political request; it’s about equity, justice, and fairness. We urge other regions to support this call,” he said.
The senator also threw his weight behind state police and resource control, noting that states should manage their solid mineral resources and pay royalties to the federal government.
“This will help boost our economy and give states more control over their development,” he added.
Senator Nwebonyi revealed that there will be a joint Public Hearing of the National Assembly where all Nigerians will have the opportunity to contribute to the final draft of the amended constitution. He expressed hope that the new version will be signed into law by the President once completed.