Speaker Kalu withdraws controversial indigeneship bill for further scrutiny

Speaker Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, has pulled the contentious indigeneship bill from consideration in order to engage in further legislative activities.

Speaker Kalu said in a statement on Tuesday evening that the withdrawal was now required due to objections and helpful criticism of the bill from a number of parties.

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He went on to say that he had to resign the bill immediately due to the Bill Analysis Report that was sent by the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS).

Despite the fact that the bill’s goal was to foster national unity, equity, and inclusivity for all Nigerians, regardless of where they live, the report also recommended that the State Houses of Assembly enact legislation that would grant settlers in various states the same rights and benefits as natives.

“States should make laws that would allow settlers to benefit from the same rights and privileges enjoyed by indigenes without any form of discrimination, as rightly provided for in the Constitution.

“Though the bill seeks to achieve some commendable objectives, however, this can be achieved through the enactment of law. If this bill is passed, it would pose challenges over time, especially on the issue of double or multiple indigeneship,” the report stated.

Deputy speaker Kalu, who is also the Chairman of the Constitution Review Committee of the House, added that he is committed to ensuring that every legislative proposal reflects the wishes of the people.

“As leaders and representatives, we remain committed to ensuring that every legislative proposal reflects the aspirations of the people we serve.

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“The Constitution Review process remains an open, inclusive, and participatory exercise, and no provision or proposal will be pursued without adequate dialogue and consensus-building.

“I therefore call on citizens to continue engaging constructively with the House Committee on Constitutional Review as we work together to build a more just, united, and prosperous Nigeria,” speaker Kalu said.