The International Conference Center in Enugu was the hub of Nigeria’s ongoing constitutional reform efforts as the House of Representatives Committee for “Centre A” on the review of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) concluded its vital zonal public hearing for the Southeast region, comprising Anambra, Ebonyi and Enugu States.
The event, held on the 19th of July, 2025 brought together a wide spectrum of stakeholders, including political leaders, traditional rulers, civil society organizations, and citizens, all united in shaping the country’s future.
The occasion began with the national anthem, and opening prayers led by Dr. Ferdinand Anikwe.
In his address, Rt. Hon Ozodinobi George, Chairman of the Committee for the Southeast zone, emphasized the importance of civic participation in the constitutional review process.
Hon. Ozodinobi, commended the quality of submissions and vowed meticulous review and integration of inputs into the final report to be submitted to the National Assembly.
He further called on citizens to contribute constructively towards fostering peace and strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
The host Governor, Peter Mbah, of Enugu State, ably represented by the Secretary to the State government, Professor Chidiebere Onyia, lauded the initiative as timely and crucial, highlighting the region’s key demands, which include calls for greater regional inclusivity, creation of additional states like Adada, the establishment of state police to improve security, enhanced local government autonomy, rotational presidency, additional legislative seats for women, electoral reforms, independent candidacy, and inclusion of traditional institution in the constitution.
His Royal Highness, Igwe Chidubem Iweka, Chairman of Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council; His Royal Majesty, Igwe Samuel Ikechukwu Asadu, Chairman Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council and the Chairman of Ebonyi State Traditional Rulers Council represented by Dr. Onyibe Nnaemeka Agwu spoke on the welfare of south east traditional rulers with regard to including the functions of traditional leaders in the constitution.
Rt. Hon Toby Okechukwu, The Committee’s Lead Consultant for Centre A, presented a compendium of bills such as overview of the proposed constitutional amendments across sectors; electoral reform, inclusive governance, judicial efficiency, security and policing, devolution of powers, strengthening of institutions, traditional institutions, fiscal reform, citizenship and indigeneship, fundamental human rights, local Government reform, local government and state creation.
Participants were encouraged to submit their views, concerns, and suggestions, which will be meticulously reviewed and incorporated into the final recommendation.
Addressing the press after the event, Rt Hon Toby Okechukwu emphasized on the significance of the hearing, emphasizing several concerns that have necessitated the review of the constitution over the years for equitable and efficient governance.
Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, Deputy Speaker of the House, emphasized that the reforms aim to create a more just and equitable Nigeria, where every region can thrive.
Hon. Kalu, restated the importance of collective effort in Nigeria’s constitutional review process citing it as a critical period for the nation’s development.
Kalu’s statement underscored the urgency of the reforms and the Assembly’s resolve to ensure inclusivity and national unity.
The Committee however received 46 requests for the creation of new states and 117 calls for additional local governments, emphasizing regional aspirations for better resource allocation and political representation.
The hearing featured in-depth discussions on regional development, with representatives advocating for the creation of Adada State as a way to address historical marginalization and stimulate economic growth through Nigeria’s rich natural resources.
Support for the proposal spanned all political levels, underscoring widespread regional consensus.
As the country advances its constitutional overhaul, the Enugu public hearing vividly demonstrated the South East’s aspirations for justice, equality, and development within the Nigerian federation.
It was established that the South East remains the only geopolitical zone in the country with just five States, while other zones have more States.
Former President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Nnia Nwodo, among other prominent figures present argued that the Enugu North Senatorial Zone has been historically marginalized despite meeting all constitutional requirements for an additional State.
They highlighted the region’s economic potential, including oil, gas, fertile land, and navigable waterways, which strengthens their case for self-governance.
Support for Adada State spanned all levels of political representation, with local councilors, legislators, and governors endorsing the proposal.
Delegates from Anambra and Ebonyi States also voiced support, calling for structural reforms such as devolution of powers and equitable resource distribution.
They also called for increased gender representation in legislative bodies and allowed voting rights for Nigerians in the diaspora.
Traditional institutions’ roles in land administration and customary courts, alongside proposals for a national police system with regional units, were also part of the discussions.
As Nigeria advances its constitutional reform process, the ongoing push for Adada State symbolizes the broader Southeast aspiration for justice, equity, and regional development within the federation.