SENATE SAYS 2027 POLLS WON’T STOP CONSTITUTIONAL REVIEW

The Senate has assured Nigerians that preparations for the 2027 general elections will not prevent the National Assembly from completing the ongoing constitutional amendment process.

The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Publicity, Yemi Adaramodu, said the proposed amendments would be passed before the 10th National Assembly ends its tenure in June 2027.

Adaramodu dismissed concerns that the political activities surrounding the 2027 elections could delay the constitutional review, stressing that the January 2027 elections would take place months before the expiration of the current Assembly.

He also pointed to the recently passed Electoral Act, which he said had addressed issues concerning the conduct of the 2027 elections.

The constitutional review includes proposals covering governance, political restructuring and other aspects of Nigeria’s constitutional framework. However, any amendment will still require approval by the National Assembly and endorsement by at least two-thirds of the 36 state Houses of Assembly.

The assurance comes amid concerns that previous constitutional review exercises failed to produce some of their intended reforms despite significant public resources being committed to the process.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio had also said political campaigns would not interfere with lawmakers’ legislative responsibilities, arguing that members could balance campaign activities with parliamentary duties.

The Senate said it remains committed to completing the constitutional amendment process within the lifespan of the 10th National Assembly.