L-R: Rep. Julius Ihonvbere, Chairman, South-South Centre A of the House of Representatives Committee on Constitution Review, The Deputy Gov. of Delta, Sir Monday Onyeme
By Dianabasi Effiong
Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta has called for a review of the 1999 Constitution to ensure an upward review of the derivation formula.
Oborevwori made the call on Saturday at a public hearing South South Centre A of the House of Representatives Committee on the 1999 Constitution Review in Yenogoa, Bayelsa State.
He also expressed his support for the creation of State Police and the review of the 1999 Constitution.
He said, “A robust, people-oriented constitution is the foundation that true federalism and national stability must rest.”
The Deputy Governor of Delta State, Sir Monday Onyeme, represented Governor Oborevwori at the event.
“This exercise reflects a deep commitment to building a more inclusive, just and forward-looking Nigeria and we commend the Committee’s dedication to engaging citizens across regions and ensuring that the Constitution emerges to serve the needs of our diverse nationalities better.
“Delta State remains a strong advocate for a constitutional order that promotes equity, justice, good governance and sustainable development,” the Governor said
He said, “We respectfully present the following key demands and proposals for your consideration in the ongoing constitutional review:
“i. Resource Control and Fiscal Federalism: As a major oil-producing State and a vital contributor to the national economy, Delta State strongly advocates for true fiscal federalism. We, therefore, call for:
L-R: Gov. Duoye Diri of Bayelsa, The Deputy of Gov. of Delta, Sir Monday Onyeme.
“An upward review of the derivation formula to ensure that a greater share of the revenue generated from our land and waters is retained for local development. This should also apply to States where solid minerals are exploited.
“A more equitable and transparent revenue allocation system that reflects the contribution, needs and challenges of each federating unit.
“Clear constitutional provisions guaranteeing host communities’ rights to benefit meaningfully from natural resources, including mandatory environmental remediation.
“ii. Maritime Issues and the Legislative List: We advocate for the removal of maritime matters from the Exclusive Legislative List to the Concurrent List. Granting States the constitutional authority to legislate on maritime affairs will: Unleash the economic potential of our vast coastline and waterways.
“Promote local and foreign investments in ports, transport and blue economy development.
“Enhance security and environmental management in our coastal communities. This should also apply in areas where solid minerals are processed.
‘iii. Local Government Autonomy: We reaffirm our support for full administrative and financial autonomy for local government councils. As the tier of government, which is closest to the grassroots, empowered LGAs are critical to delivering essential services and driving rural development.
“iv. State Police: To holistically address the unique security challenges across the country, we strongly support the creation of State police. A decentralized policing system will: Improve intelligence gathering and community trust.
“Enhance rapid response to security threats.
“Complement existing federal security arrangements.
A Cross Section of Traditional Rulers at the event.
“v. Devolution of Powers: A more balanced federation requires a genuine devolution of powers. States must be empowered to manage their affairs, especially in areas such as all spheres of transportation, energy, environment, taxation and education. This will promote efficiency in governance, strengthen democratic accountability and encourage innovation and regional development.
“vi. Environmental Justice and Remediation: Given the devastating environmental impact of oil exploration in the Niger Delta, we propose:
“Constitutional provisions guaranteeing the right to a clean and healthy environment; binding obligations on oil companies to undertake environmental remediation; legal mechanisms to hold polluters accountable and provide redress to affected communities.
“vii. Judicial Reforms: We advocate for reforms that will ensure timely access to justice; strengthen judicial independence; uphold the rule of law and due process, which are essential for national cohesion and investor confidence.
“viii. Transparent Constitutional Review and Implementation
We commend the inclusive nature of this process and urge that the final document reflect the will of the people. We also recommend: Clear implementation timelines and responsibilities.
Institutional safeguards to protect the integrity and effectiveness of constitutional provisions. Interpretative guidelines that promote justice, equity, and the rule of law.”
He also said that “the constitutional review offers a historic opportunity to reset our constitutional foundations in line with the aspirations of all Nigerians.”
Also, Gov. Duoye Diri of Bayelsa expressed the hope that the South-South region would speak with one voice over the control of the region’s resources.
“The resources owned by the people should be managed by the people and pay tax to the Federal Government,” Diri said.
The Chairman, South South Centre A of the House of Representatives Committee on Constitution Review, Rep. Julius Ihonvbere, said that the occasion was a forum for the people to make input as the constitution is being reviewed.
