South South Zonal Public Hearing on 1999 Constitution Review Holds in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State

The South South Zonal Public Hearing on the review of the 1999 Constitution commenced on Friday in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State. The Senate President, Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, declared the conference open, emphasizing the significance of the event in shaping the nation's future.

In his remarks, Senator Akpabio stated that the public hearing is not merely a formality, but a democratic rite that allows the people to speak into the soul of the nation. He emphasized that every voice counts in a democracy and that the review of the Constitution is a sign of strength, not weakness.

"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," he said.

The Senate President highlighted the importance of the Constitution review process, stating that it is an opportunity to adapt the national charter to the changing realities, dreams, and demands of the good people of Nigeria. He emphasized that every Nigerian is a stakeholder in Nigeria's democracy and that the public hearing is a testament to the Senate's commitment to truth emerging from dialogue and the aggregation of honest opinions.

"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," he noted.

Senator Akpabio urged participants to speak freely and boldly, arguing passionately but reasoning truthfully. He emphasized that in this sacred moment, politics must give way to national interest and that the Constitution belongs not to the elite, but to every Nigerian who hopes for a better tomorrow.

"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," he said.

The South South 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. The event provides a platform for stakeholders to contribute to the review process and shape the future of Nigeria's constitution.

As the hearing continues, it is expected that valuable insights and recommendations will be gathered to inform the review process. The Senate President's remarks have set the tone for a productive and inclusive discussion, and it is hoped that the outcome of the public hearing will be a Constitution that truly reflects the aspirations of the Nigerian people.

The South South Zonal Public Hearing on the review of the 1999 Constitution is a crucial step towards building a stronger, more inclusive, and more just Nigeria. As the nation's leaders and stakeholders come together to shape the future of the country, it is expected that the outcome of the public hearing will be a Constitution that truly reflects the aspirations of the Nigerian people.

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