By Yusuf Sani Maitama
In response to the Nigerian National Assembly’s call for memoranda on constitutional amendments, the Gidan Yanci Fellowship Program on Thursday, hosted a one-day stakeholders’ dialogue at Bayero University Kano’s New Campus.
Themed “Stakeholders Meeting on Constitutional Review,” the session brought together experts from academia, law, politics, media, and civil society organizations (CSOs) to discuss potential amendments, particularly focusing on electoral reforms.
This dialogue follows the establishment of a Constitution Review Committee in February 2024, marking the sixth attempt to revise the 1999 Constitution. The Gidan Yanci Fellowship recognizes this as a crucial opportunity to address national issues and strengthen Nigeria’s democratic structures.
KANO TIMES reports that while acknowledging the progress made in the 2022 Electoral Act, participants identified areas for improvement. Discussions centered on potential “loopholes and gray areas” within the Act, specifically regarding campaign finances (Section 85), electoral offenses (Sections 120-128), technology integration (Sections 47 & 50), and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) (Sections 4 & 14).
Speaking to newsmen during the event, Gidan Yanci’s Program Lead, Mr. Sadiq Muhammad Mustapha, emphasized the importance of public participation in the review process.
He encouraged Nigerians at home and abroad to submit memoranda, highlighting the power of collective action in shaping the nation’s future.
Miss Hafsat Bello Bahara, a Gidan Yanci fellow, described the event as a positive step towards strengthening political will and deepening democratic reforms.
She expressed hope that the Committee will consider all stakeholder input when making final decisions.
The Gidan Yanci Fellowship Program consists of 15 Kano-based young leaders dedicated to promoting political participation, good governance, and positive change within their communities.
