Zonal hearing on constitution amendment commendable

We wish to commend the Senate Committee Chairman, his members and the entire leadership of the National Assembly on the Review and Amendment of the1999 Constitution for announcing the flag-off of its zonal hearing.

Such has come at no other better time than now to help in nation building because as very important as the Constitution document is to the people, it will make the country to be more strong and united if all the popular views of the entire constituents are captured to truly reflect "We" the people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria aimed at addressing all challenges.

It is also very important because it will ensure that those who make decisions on behalf of the public, truly and fairly represent their public opinion and the common good.

A new Constitution will no doubt set out the ways in which leaders and all those who exercise power may be held accountable to the people.

It has been long overdue especially for us at the local governments and councils. We appreciate this zonal hearing, it is a clarion call for the Nigerian people importantly at the grassroots to come out enmass, It is long expected and looking at the key issues in Scheduled, the local governments and councils have no. 3 on the agenda and that makes it strong and popular.

We are happy. This amendment procedure will allow those in governments or position of civil authority to sincerely respond to both the changing political, social and economic needs of the people especially at the grassroots, which is supposed to be a breeding ground for quality, future and law-abiding leaders, we can only get it right through the grassroots governance.

It will be recalled that at several times, the National Assembly made attempts to organise public zonal hearings including 6, 7, 8 and the present 9th Assembly in the hope of developing a new Constitution to address several gaps, inadequacies and all issues that were tagged inchoate in the sight of law.

Local governments and councils through ALGON are presently mobilising responsibly with all her articulated points preparatory for the already sçheduled hearing.

Hon Alabi Kolade David, National President, Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON)