MEDIA AND CIVIL SOCIETY GROUPS TOLD TO SUPPORT EFFORTS BY LAWMAKERS TO AMEND SOME SECTIONS OF THE 1999 CONSTITUTION
A Constitutional Lawyer with the University of Nigeria Nsukka, Professor Joy Ezeilo wants the media and civil society groups to champion the renewed efforts by the National Assembly to amend some sections of the 1999 constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to ensure its realization.
She made the call at a forum organised for Media Professionals and civil society organizations in Owerri, Imo State.
Professor Ezeilo noted that adequate sensitization of members of the public and engagement with legislators would facilitate the smooth passage of the bill in the State Houses of Assembly.
She stated that early passage of the bill and assent by the president would enable the Independent National Electoral Commission to adjust ahead of twenty nineteen general election.
Some of the participants, Mr. Innocent Nwokeocha and Jennifer Osuji said they would use their platforms to compel the Imo state House of Assembly to vote according to the will of the electorate.
About twenty one items which include Local Government Autonomy, Financial Autonomy of legislators, Independent Candidacy and reduction of age for election are contained in the amendment bill which has been passed by the National Assembly.
The sensitization programme was organized by coalition of Non Governmental Organizations championing good governance and participatory democracy in the country.
CHINAZO ILECHUKWU
