05 July, 2025
Nigerians from all walks of life gathered in Lagos to demand far-reaching constitutional reforms during the Southwest Zonal Public Hearing on the review of the 1999 Constitution. The event, held at Water Crest Hotel and hosted by the Lagos State Government, formed part of nationwide consultations by the Senate Committee on Constitution Review.
Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, who stood in for the Deputy Senate President and Deputy Chairman of the Committee, Senator Barau Jibrin, chaired the plenary, which attracted a significant presence of traditional rulers, political leaders, academics, and civic actors.
Among the notable traditional rulers in attendance were the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi; the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I; the Osemawe of Ondo, Oba Dr. Victor Adesimbo Kiladejo; and the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III. Their participation signalled the relevance of royal institutions in shaping Nigeria’s governance structure.
Declaring the hearing open, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, urged participants to present proposals that would ensure a just and united Nigeria. He advocated for the creation of additional states from Lagos, describing the demand as long overdue considering the state’s economic weight and population density.
“We must be sincere, objective, and focused in our submissions. Lagos has grown beyond its current structure and deserves more than one state,” Hamzat said.
The hearing explored critical issues such as resource control, state policing, electoral reform, gender inclusion, and the devolution of powers. A major highlight was the call by Professor Adeola Faleye from Obafemi Awolowo University for the creation of Igbomina State. Her presentation, which touched on cultural and administrative factors, received loud applause from the audience.
Also lending his voice, Dr. Oluwatoyin Alabi, a public affairs analyst and philanthropist, praised the National Assembly for prioritising public engagement in the amendment process. “This platform gives ordinary Nigerians a voice in shaping our national future. We must seize it to push for reforms that align with today’s realities,” he told journalists.
Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli, a member of the Constitution Review Committee, closed the session with a promise that all submissions would be carefully reviewed. He reaffirmed the Senate’s commitment to delivering a restructured constitution that reflects the diverse aspirations of Nigerians.
“The memoranda we’ve received will not be swept aside. This is a serious national project, and we owe it to every Nigerian to ensure their voices are heard and reflected,” Alli said.
The Lagos session stands as a major step in the wider constitutional reform process. As other zones continue to host similar hearings, many Nigerians are hopeful that the final amendments will strengthen governance, promote inclusivity, and lay the foundation for a more equitable federation.
