Otti Calls for Practical Constitutional Reforms to Shape a Just and United Nation

Otti Calls for Practical Constitutional Reforms to Shape a Just and United Nation

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has called for a practical, people-focused approach to constitutional reforms, one rooted in inclusivity, economic restructuring, and national unity, in a rousing and thoughtful address delivered at the South East Zonal Hearing on the Review of the 1999 Constitution.

Represented by Deputy Governor Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu at the joint Imo-Abia session of the hearing, in Owerri Imo State Governor Otti emphasized that constitutions are not static documents but living instruments that must evolve in line with the dynamic aspirations of a nation’s people.

“The legitimacy of a constitution in a pluralistic society like ours,” he stated, “depends on the contributions of all ethnic, religious, and cultural groups. Our task is not to craft a perfect document but a practical one that reflects our realities, challenges, and shared values.”

Governor Otti acknowledged the historical limitations of the 1999 Constitution, which was enacted under military rule without broad public consultation. However, he praised the ongoing constitutional amendment efforts, noting that five rounds of revisions since 2010 signify a maturing democracy.

He welcomed the 10th National Assembly’s renewed push for reform, applauding its commitment to stakeholder inclusion and transparency.

He commended the efforts of Senator Barau Jibrin and Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, Deputy Senate President and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives respectively for championing this process with “patriotic zeal.”

In a measured and forward-thinking tone, Dr. Otti addressed several constitutional review topics with clarity: Creation of Additional States, State Police, Women in Governance, Local Government Autonomy and Free Basic Education

Governor Otti cited Abia State’s recent electricity reforms as a case study in the positive impact of constitutional changes. Following amendments that allowed subnational entities to participate in the electricity sector, Abia established the Abia State Electricity Regulatory Agency (ASERA) and received regulatory oversight from the national commission (NERC).

“This single reform has empowered us to take control of our energy future,” Otti declared, adding that the shift is expected to attract investments, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth.

While acknowledging the skepticism of some Nigerians who feel disillusioned by past efforts, Otti urged them to re-engage with the process.

“Retreating from civic participation only delays our collective progress,” he said. “Every gain we have made from electoral reforms to power sector decentralization began with someone believing change was possible.”

In his address, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, described the hearings as “a national conversation” that must produce a constitution that “reflects the hopes and values of all Nigerians.” He urged citizens to treat the document as a social contract, not merely a legal text.

In his goodwill message, Imo State Governor Senator Hope Uzodinma lauded the inclusive process and expressed optimism that the South East’s aspirations, including new state creation would receive due consideration. He also called attention to challenges in the constitutional guarantees of freedom of residency and employment across states.

 

Also in his remarks, Chief Chris Uche, constitutional consultant and national adviser to the review committee, presented a compendium of the bills before the House and emphasized the committee’s commitment to gender inclusion and democratic development

Civil societies, sociocultural groups, professional bodies such as the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Farmers Association, Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, Park Management Associations, Banks and other financial institutions among others presented their position papers during the event.