The people of the South-East have called for sweeping constitutional reforms, including a rotational presidency and full autonomy for local government councils.
This demand was presented on Friday during the South-East Zonal Public Hearing on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, held in Enugu.
Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, said rotational presidency among Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones would foster unity and fairness.
“We believe adopting a rotational presidency will provide every region, including the South-East, a fair chance at the highest office,” Mbah stated.
He urged the Senate to consider a system where governorship rotates among senatorial zones and legislative seats rotate among constituencies.
To promote gender inclusivity, Mbah proposed one additional Senate seat and two House of Representatives seats per state reserved for women. He also pushed for three new seats for women in every State Assembly.
“This measure will significantly boost gender parity and ensure active participation of women in governance and decision-making,” he said.
Push for Empowered Local Governments
Governor Mbah also pressed for true autonomy of local governments. He criticised the practice of state governors appointing caretaker committees instead of allowing democratic elections.
“We urge the committee to reinforce the constitution to ensure the democratic existence of local governments,” he said. “They must be allowed to access funds directly from the National Consolidated Account.”
He called for broader fiscal reforms and more legislative powers for states, arguing that too much power remains concentrated at the federal level.
“A true federal system requires that states are autonomous entities with sufficient powers and resources to positively impact the lives of their citizens,” Mbah added.
Ebonyi Governor Calls for a New State
Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State, represented by Assembly Speaker Moses Odunwa, also made strong submissions. He urged the creation of a new state in the South-East to bring the region to parity with others.
He aligned with the call for reserved political seats for women, stating: “If a particular seat has been designated for women, all parties will feature women candidates to fill in the space.”
The public hearing drew a diverse crowd—traditional rulers, elected officials, civil society groups, and non-governmental organisations all participated in the dialogue.
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