Politics

Constitutional Review Update: See Reasons Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu Steps Down Indigeneship Bill

Published by Tope Fakinlede on July 30th, 2025.

Constitutional Review Update: See Reasons Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu Steps Down Indigeneship Bill

Official Statement from the Office of the Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives

Dated: July 29, 2025

Deputy Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, CFR, has officially withdrawn the proposed Indigeneship Bill from legislative consideration to allow for deeper stakeholder consultations and further legislative refinement.

In a statement released Tuesday night, Kalu noted that the decision followed constructive feedback and concerns raised by a wide array of stakeholders. He emphasized the importance of aligning legislative efforts with the sentiments and aspirations of the people.

The withdrawal was further influenced by the detailed Bill Analysis Report submitted by the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS). The report emphasized the need for individual State Houses of Assembly to enact laws that would ensure equitable treatment of residents, regardless of their state of origin.

“States should enact legislation that allows non-indigenes who have settled in their communities to enjoy the same rights and privileges as indigenes, in line with constitutional guarantees,” the report noted.

While acknowledging that the bill aimed to foster national integration and equal opportunity, the NILDS report also cautioned that passing it at the federal level could lead to complications, such as individuals claiming multiple states of origin, which might create administrative and legal challenges in the future.

As Chairman of the House Committee on Constitution Review, Kalu reiterated his dedication to transparent and inclusive lawmaking.

“Our legislative duty requires that every proposal reflects the collective will of Nigerians. The Constitution Review process is grounded in openness, inclusivity, and public engagement,” he stated.

“I encourage all citizens to remain actively involved with the Committee’s work so that, together, we can build a fairer and more united Nigeria,” he added.

Signed:

Levinus Nwabughiogu

Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Speaker,

House of Representatives, Federal Republic of Nigeria