Plateau Governor Mutfwang Makes Strong Case for State Police, Gender Inclusion, and Fiscal Federalism at Constitutional Review Hearing

The North Central Zonal Public Hearing on the review of the 1999 Constitution commenced on Friday in Jos, Plateau State, with Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, making a compelling case for far-reaching constitutional reforms to reflect the evolving realities of the Nigerian federation.

The hearing, held at Crispan Hotel, Jos, brought together delegates and stakeholders from the six North Central states and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. The event is part of the broader national constitutional review process driven by the National Assembly, aimed at strengthening democratic governance and addressing the nation's structural challenges.

In his remarks, Governor Mutfwang emphasized the historical significance of Plateau State as a cradle of democratic discourse and urged Nigerians to seize the opportunity to make bold and constructive contributions to national development. He highlighted several priority areas for urgent reform, including the establishment of State Police to address the country's worsening security challenges.

"We must face the reality that a centralized police structure can no longer effectively secure our communities. It is time to decentralize policing and empower states to take direct responsibility for internal security," he declared.

The Governor also made a passionate appeal for gender inclusion, stressing the need for constitutional provisions that recognize and elevate the contributions of women to national development. "We must constitutionally accommodate the gifts and leadership capacity that God has placed in our women," he noted.

Other critical areas the Governor advocated for include fiscal federalism, allowing subnational governments greater autonomy over resources within their domains, recognition of traditional institutions as indispensable partners in governance, peacebuilding, and community development, and inclusion of Persons Living with Disabilities (PWDs) in governance structures and national development planning.

The Governor charged lawmakers to carry out their assignment with patriotism and vision, cautioning against tribal or partisan interests that could undermine the integrity of the process. "The Constitution we reform today will determine the future our children will inherit," he said.

The public hearing continues on Saturday, with memoranda expected from civil society organizations, women's groups, professional bodies, faith-based organizations, and traditional rulers. The hearing is expected to provide a platform for stakeholders to contribute to the review process and shape the future of Nigeria's constitution.

The North Central Zonal Public Hearing on the review of the 1999 Constitution is a significant step towards strengthening democratic governance and addressing the nation's structural challenges. Governor Mutfwang's contributions to the discussion highlight the need for a more inclusive and responsive national document. As the hearing continues, stakeholders from various sectors will have the opportunity to provide input and shape the future of Nigeria's constitution.

The constitutional review process is an opportunity for Nigerians to come together and shape the future of the country. Governor Mutfwang's advocacy for state police, gender inclusion, and fiscal federalism is a significant contribution to the discussion. As the hearing continues, it is expected that stakeholders will provide valuable insights and recommendations that will inform the review process and shape the future of Nigeria's constitution.

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