Constitutional Review: Power Decentralization And Electoral Reform Crucial For Nigeria’s Reconstruction – LP

By: Nwakaji Peace Martins

The Deputy National Chairman of the Labour Party (LP), Dr. Ayo Olorunfemi, asserts that the current constitutional amendment process will lack significance if it overlooks the crucial aspects of restructuring and electoral reforms.
Identifying as a Federal Republic of Nigeria, Dr. Olorunfemi emphasizes that the nation should adhere to true federalism principles, granting each state its independence and autonomy, particularly in matters of security.
He stresses the importance of embracing genuine federalism and restructuring in the ongoing constitutional review, highlighting the need for these reforms to be prioritized.
Dr. Olorunfemi also underscores the necessity of electoral reforms, citing existing loopholes in the system that foster election manipulation by unscrupulous politicians.
He warns that without the National Assembly enacting reforms to the Electoral Act and implementing restructuring, the country will continue to face challenges in its development.

Furthermore, Dr. Olorunfemi advocates for the adoption of advanced technology to enhance the electoral process, suggesting real-time live transmission of election results as a means to bolster democracy and propel the nation towards progress.
He proposes leveraging technology to streamline the electoral process, emphasizing the need for reliable and proven technological solutions to address voting irregularities effectively.
Regarding the establishment of state police forces, the labour leader deems it long overdue and essential for bolstering security at the regional level.
On the subject of immunity clauses for Presidents and governors, Dr. Olorunfemi argues that removing immunity would compel public officials to be more accountable and responsible, knowing they could be held liable for their actions.

The 10th National Assembly has initiated the constitutional amendment process, with the Senate forming a Constitution Review Committee led by Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau, to oversee the revision.
Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, expressed the necessity of revising the constitution to rectify existing shortcomings during the committee’s inauguration in Abuja.
Similarly, the House of Representatives has launched its constitutional review committee to amend the 1999 constitution, with Speaker Tajudeen Abbas emphasizing the significance of this step in advancing the nation’s democratic journey towards a more cohesive and effective union.
He anticipates that the sixth alteration under the 10th National Assembly will encompass a wide range of critical areas for potential amendments, including the establishment of state police, granting autonomy to local governments, and overhauling the electoral system.