The House of Representatives Committee on Constitutional Review, chaired by Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has pledged to implement measures that will safeguard the judiciary’s independence and ensure its decisions serve the greater good of the citizens and the country’s development.
Speaking at a sectoral engagement with the judiciary in Lagos, Kalu emphasized the judiciary’s vital role in democratic development through the rule of law. The objectives of the engagement include strengthening judicial independence, improving access to justice, and addressing electoral disputes.
Kalu noted that the National Assembly has made several attempts to reform and strengthen the judiciary through constitutional amendments, including 10 judiciary bills passed in the 9th Assembly, of which only three received presidential assent. He revealed that 29 bills related to quick dispensation of justice are currently before parliament.
The Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Chief Lateef Fagbemi, commended the committee’s efforts towards achieving a people-oriented constitution. The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) President, Mr. Yakubu Maikyau, SAN, urged the committee to ensure the amendments protect the judiciary’s independence, which is crucial for the country’s economy, security, and welfare.
The committee’s efforts aim to strike a balance between judicial independence and accountability, ensuring the judiciary remains a pillar of justice and upholds the rule of law.
LV