The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, has reaffirmed that local government autonomy and the devolution of powers to sub national units remain central to the ongoing constitutional amendment process.
Kalu, who also chairs the House Committee on Constitution Review, made this known in Abuja while receiving a delegation from the Abiriba Communal Improvement Union Worldwide, led by its President General, Yuccee Uwah.
He explained that the constitution review exercise is being driven by the need to strengthen governance at the grassroots and empower local councils to directly manage development in their communities.
“This constitutional review process is not just a routine legislative exercise. It is a sincere attempt to bring government closer to the people,”
Kalu said. “Our focus is on increased devolution of powers and real autonomy for local governments. Communities like Abiriba will benefit more when they are allowed to determine their own development priorities.”
The Deputy Speaker noted that inclusive governance remains a major focus of the House leadership, adding that both himself and the Speaker, Tajudeen Abbas, are committed to reforms that ensure fair access to federal resources, particularly for rural and underrepresented areas.
He urged rural communities across the country to clearly identify their most urgent development needs to enable government intervention to be more effective.
“Strategic empowerment starts with accurate data. When rural communities clearly articulate their needs, we are better positioned to respond with policies that have real impact,” he said.
Responding to the delegation’s request for the creation of a new local government area from Ohafia in Abia State, Kalu acknowledged their aspirations but advised that all constitutional requirements must be strictly followed.
“There are laid down procedures for creating new local governments. It is important for the Abiriba community to align with these steps to ensure their request is properly considered,” he added.
