Youths from Nigeria’s North-West, under the auspices of JESZ Development Foundation, have expressed growing concern over the prolonged delay by the 10th National Assembly in passing pending constitutional review bills.
They argue that swift legislative action is crucial to strengthen democracy, improve electoral integrity, and implement youth-focused reforms across the country.
Speaking at a conference in Kaduna, Zigwai Ayuba, Executive Director of JESZ Development Foundation, noted that the constitutional review exercise, which began in February 2024, still lacks a clear timeline for voting and transmission of the bills to the 36 state Houses of Assembly for concurrence.
Ayuba stressed that the delay is becoming a major concern for young Nigerians eager to see meaningful reforms enacted.
“Our youths are particularly interested in constitutional review provisions that enhance the electoral system.
“These include the creation of an independent electoral offences commission, provision for independent candidacy, timely resolution of election petitions before swearing-in of winners, and dedicated legislative seats for women,” Ayuba explained.
She further emphasized that these measures are vital for improving electoral accountability and inclusive governance.
Beyond electoral reforms, the youths also highlighted other critical aspects of the constitutional review, including provisions on security and policing, local government autonomy, judicial and fiscal reforms.
They stressed that these amendments are essential for national development, security, and efficient governance.
The group aligned itself with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent call for constitutional changes to accommodate state police, quoting him as urging lawmakers to “start thinking about how best to amend the Constitution to incorporate state police” as a way to strengthen security across Nigeria.
According to Ayuba, the delay in passing constitutional review bills could also affect the implementation of the 2026 Electoral Act.
She noted that certain sections of the act, particularly those addressing the timely determination of election petitions, depend heavily on constitutional amendments.
“If the bills are not passed promptly, the effectiveness of electoral reforms under the 2026 Electoral Act could be undermined,” she warned.
The group called on the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, the Deputy President of the Senate, Barau Jibrin, and other lawmakers from the North-West to make the passage of these bills a top legislative priority.
“We urge our legislators in the North-West and across Nigeria to ensure that constitutional review bills are passed without further delay,” Ayuba said.
“The focus should be on provisions introducing an electoral offences commission, independent candidacy, and concluding election petitions before swearing-in ceremonies.”
JESZ Development Foundation also appealed to traditional rulers, religious leaders, political parties, and civil society organizations to support the youth-driven push for constitutional reforms.
They emphasized that widespread stakeholder support is critical for the successful adoption of amendments that directly affect Nigeria’s governance, electoral processes, and inclusivity.
The youths highlighted that timely passage of the constitutional review bills would have far-reaching benefits, including strengthening democratic governance, improving electoral integrity, and ensuring that young people and women are better represented in decision-making processes.
They warned that further delays could erode public confidence in the legislative process and hinder Nigeria’s democratic progress.
Furthermore, the group emphasized that constitutional review is not only a political exercise but a national imperative.
By incorporating reforms such as state police and independent candidacy, the country can enhance security, widen political participation, and prevent electoral disputes from undermining democratic stability.
“The constitutional review is an opportunity to address long-standing governance gaps and make the system more inclusive,” Ayuba said.
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