Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege was, on Wednesday, inaugurated as Chairman of Constitution Review Committee alongside 57 others as members.
In his address, Senate President, Dr Ahmad Lawan urged the Committee to conduct the process of Constitution amendment on a “fast lane”, which has been the belief of the ninth Senate in the handling of legislative bills.
Responding, the Chairman of the Senate adhoc Committee on Review of 1999 Constitution, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege stated that the Panel will consider the recommendations of the 2014 Constitutional Conference .
Omo-Agege made this known at the inauguration of Senate adhoc Committee on Review of the 1999 constitution.
The 2014 constitutional conference was inaugurated by former president, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan and the conference made so many recommendations.
Omo-Agege added that the Committee will also consider devolution of power.
He said, “In carrying out this national assignment, this Committee will no doubt, consider the alteration of the Sixth schedule to make provision for new items, the establishment of National and State Houses of Assembly, Pre-election Matters Tribunal, Governorship Pre-election Matters Tribunals and Presidential Pre-election Matters Tribunal, including time limits for the disposal of all pre-election matters before the conduct of the general elections.
“We will also consider the need for devolution of power, full Local Government fiscal autonomy, full autonomy of the judiciary in the area of administration of justice, youth inclusiveness in governance, gender parity or affirmative action. This is by no means an exhaustive list. The Committee will also consider inputs from stakeholders and different interest groups across the country.
“In addition, this committee will consider the recommendations of the 2014 Constitutional Conference and the Governor Nasir el-Rufai-led Committee on restructuring. We would also liaise with our counterparts in the House of Representatives, the State Houses of Assembly and collaborate and build consensus with all stakeholders to ensure synergy.
”Development Partners will also play pivotal roles through counsel, workshops, conferences and interactions. The partnership roles of the Executive and Judiciary and their invaluable contributions cannot be over looked as it will enhance efficient and successful outcomes.”