The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, CFR, has formally withdrawn the proposed Indigeneship Bill from the floor of the National Assembly.
In a statement issued Tuesday night, Kalu, who also chairs the House Committee on Constitution Review, said the decision followed extensive feedback from stakeholders across the country and the insights provided by a Bill Analysis Report from the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), citing the need for further legislative consultations and stakeholder engagement.
“The withdrawal has become necessary in light of concerns and constructive feedback received from various stakeholders regarding the bill,” he noted.
The NILDS report, while acknowledging the bill’s commendable objectives, warned of future complications, particularly the potential for multiple or dual indigeneship claims.
It emphasized that individual states should be empowered to enact laws that guarantee equal rights and privileges for all residents, settlers and indigenes alike in line with the anti-discrimination provisions of the Nigerian Constitution.
“Though the Bill seeks to achieve some commendable objectives, however, this can be achieved through enactment of law. If this Bill is passed, it would pose challenges with time especially on the issue of double or multiple indigenship,” the report stated.
Kalu reaffirmed his commitment to a legislative process that reflects the will and aspirations of Nigerians, assuring that the constitutional review remains a participatory and inclusive exercise.
“As leaders and Representatives, we remain committed to ensuring that every legislative proposal reflects the aspirations of the people we serve,” he said.
He urged continued civic engagement with the House Committee on Constitutional Review, encouraging citizens to contribute meaningfully to the development of laws aimed at fostering national unity and equity.
“The Constitution Review process remains an open, inclusive, and participatory exercise, and no provision or proposal will be pursued without adequate dialogue and consensus-building,” Kalu concluded.
The withdrawn bill had sought to redefine the legal framework around indigeneship and residency rights across Nigeria.
