From Ndubuisi Orji, Abuja
The deputy speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has withdrawn the indigeneship bill before the House for further consultations.
Kalu, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Levinus Nwabughiogu, on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, said that the withdrawal of the proposed legislation became imperative following concerns and constructive feedback received from various stakeholders regarding the bill.
The deputy speaker added that the Bill Analysis Report, by the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), also made it necessary for him to step down the bill at this time.
According to the statement, “although the intention of the bill was to promote national unity, equity, and inclusiveness among all Nigerians, regardless of where they reside, part of the report stated that the State Houses of Assembly should make laws that will make settlers in different states enjoy the same rights and privileges as the indigenes.”
Kalu, who is also the chairman of the House Committee on Constitution Review, stated that he is committed to ensuring that every legislative proposal reflects the wishes of the people.
“As leaders and Representatives, we remain committed to ensuring that every legislative proposal reflects the aspirations of the people we serve.
“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.
“I therefore call on citizens to continue engaging constructively with the House Committee on Constitutional Review as we work together to build a more just, united, and prosperous Nigeria,” he said.
