Senate President Godswill Akpabio has said that the review of the 1999 Constitution embarked upon by the 10th 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 was held simultaneously in five geopolitical zones across the country.
A statement by the Special Assistant on Media/Communication to the Senate President, Anietie Ekong, quoted Senator Akpabio to have said: “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.
“Every Nigerian is a stakeholder in Nigeria’s democracy. 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.
“That is why we are here—not as party men, but as patriots. Not as political actors, but as nation-builders,” he said.
