“The time to move from rhetoric to action is now,” the Ajuga stated, adding that “A progressive, inclusive, and accountable constitution is possible—if the political will exists.”
By TheInvestigator
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has presented comprehensive proposals to the National Assembly calling for a rights-focused constitutional review to advance good governance, gender inclusion, social justice, and national development.
In a detailed submission obtained by TheInvestigator, the NHRC, Cross River State Coordinator, Mr Remi Ajuga canvassed for wide-ranging amendments to the 1999 Constitution, citing persistent socio-political challenges such as insecurity, electoral fraud, poor infrastructure, exclusion of vulnerable populations, and weak institutional independence.
The House of Representatives Committee on the review of the 1999 constitution held its public hearing for Calabar Centre — designated as Centre B — hosted representatives and stakeholders from Cross River, Rivers, and Akwa Ibom States on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at the Metropolitan Hotel, Calabar.
Key Recommendations
1. Gender Equality and Affirmative Action
The Commission urged the inclusion of explicit provisions to promote gender equity and the political participation of women and vulnerable groups. It recommended constitutional recognition of affirmative action, allowing for targeted, time-bound measures to address discrimination against women, persons with disabilities, albinos, and other disadvantaged groups.
It also proposed amending Section 14 of the Constitution to require not just federal character in appointments but gender inclusion at all levels of governance.
2. Socio-Economic Rights and Justiciability
Highlighting the disjunction between civil and socio-economic rights in Nigeria’s constitution, the NHRC called for an end to the compartmentalisation of rights. It proposed that the right to health, education, food, shelter, and decent work—currently listed as non-justiciable in Chapter II—be elevated to enforceable rights alongside civil liberties in Chapter IV.
“The right to life is meaningless if people cannot access food, healthcare, and shelter,” the Commission noted Nigeria’s obligations under the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.
3. Establishment of State and Local Government Police
Against the backdrop of worsening insecurity and the existence of “ungoverned spaces,” the NHRC reiterated the urgent need to decentralise the police. It recommended the amendment of Section 214 to allow for the creation of state and local government police units, arguing that localised policing would help curb crime and enhance community trust in law enforcement.
4. Local Government Autonomy and Power Devolution
The Commission condemned the stifling of local government operations by state governors, especially the use of caretaker committees and diversion of funds meant for grassroots development. It advocated for the direct allocation of funds to local councils and the transfer of election oversight to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
“The local government must be seen as a viable tier of government and not an appendage of the state,” the NHRC insisted.
5. Electoral Reform and Electoral Offences Commission
In a bid to improve electoral integrity, the Commission supported the establishment of an independent Electoral Offences Commission to prosecute vote rigging, violence, and other malpractices. It also called for the urgent passage of the Electoral Act 2020 and amendments to prevent the abuse of incumbency, such as repealing Section 143 of the current Electoral Act, which allows contested winners to remain in office during litigation.
6. Strengthening Key Institutions
The NHRC called for greater independence of institutions like the Auditor-General, Accountant-General, and the Attorney-General. It proposed separating the Attorney General’s office from the Ministry of Justice and making the appointment of the AGF a merit-based process through the Nigerian Bar Association.
7. Other Notable Recommendations
Immunity Clause: Removal of immunity for elected officials in cases involving corruption, financial crimes, or serious offences such as murder.
Indigeneship vs. Residency: Granting electoral rights to individuals who have resided in a community for at least 15 years.
Timeline for Budget Submission: Mandating submission of the Appropriation Bill by August or September each fiscal year.
Dress Code Restrictions: Recommending that the government avoid imposing religious or cultural dress codes as preconditions for accessing public spaces.
A Call to Action
The NHRC’s submission by the NHRC Cross River Coordinator, Mr Remi Ajuga emphasised that these constitutional changes are not merely legal formalities but essential steps to address inequality, build national cohesion, and fulfil Nigeria’s international obligations.
“The time to move from rhetoric to action is now,” the Ajuga stated, adding that “A progressive, inclusive, and accountable constitution is possible—if the political will exists.”