Constitution review: CAN, others canvass equality for Nigerians

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has reiterated the need to ensure equity for all Nigerians and recognise traditional and religious leaders in the proposed amendment to the 1999 Constitution.

The CAN chairman Kogi state chapter, Bishop John Ibenu, stated this Wednesday at the 2-day North-Central Zonal Public Hearing on the ongoing constitutional amendments in Lokoja.
Ibenu noted that CAN in Kogi was in tandem with the position of the national CAN on constitutional review as presented by its national president, Dr. Samson Ayokunle, who stated the need for women empowerment through education and inheritance, equality of all persons before the law, and maintaining the secularity of Nigeria.

The association also agitated for the confederation of independent regions or a federation of states or regions, and ensuring the financial autonomy and independence of the judiciary.
”We want recognition of traditional rulers and religious leaders, constitutional backing for the operational decentralisation and regionalisation for law enforcement agencies.

”We want redefinition of courts of superior jurisdiction to accommodate the regional system with respective appellate structure.
”Separation of office of Attorney General from the Office of the Minister of Justice, proper definition of residency and indigene rights and the creation of new states vis-à-vis Southern Kaduna/Kataf/Gurara state, Cross River North state, Okun state, Okigwe state, Oke-Ogun stàte” he said.

He, however noted that no perfect constitution, but the implementors should always ensure that the right thing are done at the right to ensure equity, fairness and justice for all.
On its part, the Okun Development Association (ODA) who made presentation on behalf of Okun Yoruba People of Kogi state expressed their full support for restructuring and power devolution.