The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has said that the review of the 1999 Constitution being embarked upon by the National Assembly will guarantee the evolution of a more just, united, and forward-looking federation.
Akpabio made the remarks while declaring open the South-South Zonal Public Hearing on the review of the 1999 Constitution in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State.
The exercise is expected to be held simultaneously in five geopolitical zones across the country.
A statement by the Special Assistant on Media/Communication to the President of the Senate, Anietie Ekong, quoted Senator Akpabio as saying, “Today’s event is not merely a formality.
“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.
“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. But it is in our collective pursuit of perfection—that more perfect union—that the true beauty of democracy lies.
“Therefore, the review of our Constitution is not a sign of weakness, but of strength. 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.”
According to him, every Nigerian is a stakeholder in the country’s democracy.
He said the public hearing was 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”.
“That is why we are here—not as party men, but as patriots. Not as political actors, but as nation-builders,” he added.