Senate President Godswill Akpabio says the ongoing review of the 1999 constitution is essential to building a more just, united, and stable Nigeria.
Akpabio spoke in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom state, on Friday while declaring open the south-south zonal public hearing on the constitution review.
The exercise, aimed at gathering citizens’ input on proposed constitutional amendments, was held simultaneously across five geopolitical zones.
In a statement issued by his media aide, Anietie Ekong, Akpabio described the hearing as “a democratic rite” and an opportunity for Nigerians to shape the nation’s future.
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“Today’s event is not merely a formality,” he said.
“It is a democratic rite—a solemn moment in which the people, not politicians alone, speak into the soul of the nation. It is an affirmation that in a democracy, every voice counts.”
Akpabio said democracy is an evolving process, noting that no constitution remains perfect or permanent.
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“Let us not forget that democracy is a work in progress. No constitution is eternal in its original form, and no democracy is perfect—because man himself is not perfect,” he said.
“But it is in our collective pursuit of perfection—that more perfect union—that the true beauty of democracy lies.”
The senate president said the review is not about condemning the past but a commitment to national progress.
“The review of our constitution is not a sign of weakness, but of strength,” he said.
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“It is not a complaint against the past, but a commitment to the future. We amend not to abandon, but to realign — to adapt our national charter to the changing realities, dreams, and demands of the good people of Nigeria.”
Akpabio added that the hearing reflects the senate’s belief in inclusive governance and citizen participation.
“This public hearing is a testament to the senate’s unwavering belief that truth emerges not from silence, but from dialogue; not from monologue, but from the aggregation of honest opinions,” he said.
“That is why we are here — not as party men, but as patriots. Not as political actors, but as nation-builders.”
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On Friday, Barau Jibrin, deputy senate president, said previous efforts to amend the 1999 Constitution did not adequately address several Nigeria’s fundamental governance issues.
He said critical proposals on state policing, devolution of powers, and constitutional recognition of traditional institutions failed due to insufficient approval from state assemblies.
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