In what could become one of the most significant constitutional reform efforts in Nigeria’s democratic history, the House of Representatives has passed 39 amendment bills, covering wide-ranging changes from electoral reforms to devolution of power, judicial restructuring, and gender equity.
Hailed by some as a bold step toward a more functional and inclusive federation—and dismissed by others as political theater—the legislative marathon marks a pivotal moment in the country’s long quest for systemic change.
What Really Happened?
After months of committee debates, public hearings, and closed-door negotiations, the 39 bills were passed in a single sitting, sparking excitement and controversy across Nigeria.
Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, described the passage as “a triumph of legislative maturity,” adding that the amendments reflect “the will of the people and the needs of the moment.”
“This is not just constitutional tinkering,” he said during the session. “This is a recalibration of the Nigerian state—one aimed at justice, development, and balance.”
Key Highlights of the Amendment Package
While the full text of the bills is extensive, here are some of the most impactful reforms:
- Local Government Autonomy: Financial and administrative independence granted to local governments to operate without state interference.
- Judicial Reform: Creation of state judicial councils to manage appointments and discipline, aiming to strengthen rule of law at sub-national levels.
- Electoral Innovation: Legal backing for electronic voting and diaspora voting in future elections—pending operational framework from INEC.
- State Police Framework: Introduction of state police with strict regulatory oversight, aiming to decentralize security while ensuring accountability.
- Gender Inclusion: Amendments to ensure 35% affirmative action for women in federal and state appointments, plus stronger protection against gender-based discrimination.
- Residency Rights: Redefining indigene-ship to promote national integration by granting residents of a state equal political and economic rights after a period of lawful stay.
- Legislative Timing: Fixed timelines for the passage of annual budgets and presidential assent to bills, aimed at improving governance efficiency.
What’s Next?
Constitutional amendments in Nigeria require more than just passage by the National Assembly. To become law, the bills must now be ratified by at least 24 out of the 36 State Houses of Assembly. This next phase is often where reform efforts stall—either from political resistance, lack of coordination, or elite interests being threatened.
Civil society groups are already rallying to ensure the momentum is not lost.
“This is a rare window to reshape our democracy,” said Yemi Adamolekun, Executive Director of Enough Is Enough (EiE). “We call on the states to rise above partisanship and support these reforms that Nigerians have long demanded.”
Reactions Across the Country
The public response has been mixed—hopeful, skeptical, and deeply analytical.
- Youths and civic organizations have praised the gender equity and electoral reforms as overdue progress.
- Opposition parties have cautiously welcomed the bills but raised concerns about implementation and political will.
- Traditional institutions and governors, particularly in Northern states, have voiced resistance to local government autonomy and residency laws, citing potential cultural and power disruptions.
Social media has lit up with hashtags like #AmendTheSystem, #StatePoliceNow, and #NigeriaDecides, reflecting both enthusiasm and tension.
A Constitutional Moment or Political Optics?
Some critics argue that while the number of bills passed is impressive, the real test will be execution and consistency. Nigeria has a history of grand legislative gestures that never translate into real change.
“What matters is not how many bills were passed, but how many lives are changed,” said Professor Akin Oyebode, a constitutional law expert. “Will these amendments be implemented? Will they withstand the states’ approval? Or are they symbolic fireworks?”
The Promise of Change
This wave of constitutional reform—if carried through—could mark a turning point in Nigeria’s democratic evolution. It reflects a growing maturity in governance and a response, however late, to decades-long demands from civil society, political reformers, and ordinary Nigerians.
Yet the journey from “bill” to “change” is long and littered with political landmines. What happens next will determine whether this moment is remembered as a legislative milestone—or just another missed opportunity in Nigeria’s pursuit of progress.
