July 30, 2025
By Ayinde Adeleke
The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has been asked to withdraw the contentious Indigeneship Bill from further consideration, citing concerns and constructive feedback from various stakeholders.
According to a statement made available by Wali Baba Shehu, Clerk of the House Committee on Constitutional Review, Kalu explained that the withdrawal was necessary to allow for further legislative engagements and consultations.
The bill, which aimed to promote national unity, equity, and inclusiveness among all Nigerians, regardless of where they reside, had sparked intense debate and criticism from various ethnic groups and concern Nigerians in diaspora.
However, following a Bill Analysis Report by the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), it became clear that the proposed constitutional alteration was not necessary.
“There is no need for Constitutional alteration. Rather, States should make laws that would allow settlers to benefit same rights and privileges enjoyed by indigenes without any form of discrimination as rightly provided for in the constitution,” the report stated.
The NILDS report also highlighted potential challenges with the bill, including the issue of double or multiple indigeneship.
“Though the Bill seeks to achieve some commendable objectives, however, this can be achieved through enactment of law. If this Bill is passed, it would pose challenges with time especially on the issue of double or multiple indigenship,” the report noted.
Kalu emphasized the House’s commitment to ensuring that every legislative proposal reflects the aspirations of the people.
“As leaders and representatives, we remain committed to ensuring that every legislative proposal reflects the aspirations of the people we serve,” he said.
“The Constitution Review process remains an open, inclusive, and participatory exercise, and no provision or proposal will be pursued without adequate dialogue and consensus-building.”
The Deputy Speaker called on citizens to continue engaging constructively with the House Committee on Constitutional Review. “I therefore call on citizens to continue engaging constructively with the House Committee on Constitutional Review as we work together to build a more just, united, and prosperous Nigeria,” he said.
