Constitutional Reform Hits Speed Bump as Indigeneship Bill Pulled Back

A controversial legislative proposal aimed at redefining citizenship rights in Nigeria has been abruptly withdrawn following mounting opposition.

Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, the bill’s sponsor and chair of the Constitution Review Committee, announced the withdrawal late Tuesday after what sources describe as intense behind-the-scenes pressure.

The proposed legislation – which sought to grant settlers equal rights with indigenes across states – had sparked heated debates since its introduction.

The bill’s shelving comes as co-sponsorship claims unraveled spectacularly. Prominent Lagos lawmaker James Faleke issued a fiery denial of involvement, calling such suggestions “entirely false and misleading” in a statement that underscored the proposal’s dwindling political support.

While Kalu’s office maintains the withdrawal allows for “further legislative engagements,” insiders suggest substantial revisions are likely before any reintroduction.

The National Institute for Legislative Studies had reportedly flagged implementation challenges, particularly regarding states’ constitutional rights to determine indigene privileges.