Benjamin Kalu, the deputy speaker of the House of Representatives has withdrawn the indigeneship bill before the parliament for further legislative engagements, following widespread public opposition.
The House Bill 2057 (HB.2057), a proposed amendment to the Nigerian Constitution seeks to amend Section 31 by introducing new subsections that define the criteria for being considered an indigene of a state.
According to the proposed amendment, a Nigerian citizen can be considered an indigene of a state if they were born in that state and have lived there for at least 10 years, or were not born in the state but have resided in a local government area of that state for at least 10 years and can provide evidence of tax payment in that state for at least 10 years, or are married to an indigene of that state for at least five years, in which case the spouse also becomes an indigene.
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The bill, which has passed the second reading at the House of Representatives has faced strong opposition especially from socio-political and cultural groups including Afenifere.
Critics argued that indigeneity is an ancestral and cultural identity that is tied to lineage and heritage, passed down through generations. Some others argue that it is a serious threat to Nigeria’s federal structure, peace, and inter-ethnic coexistence
In a statement on Tuesday night, Kalu said that the withdrawal has become necessary in the light of the concerns and constructive feedback received from various stakeholders regarding the bill.
He added that the Bill Analysis Report, forwarded by the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) also made it imperative for him to step down the bill at this time.
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 by the indigenes.
“States should make laws that would allow settlers to benefit same rights and privileges enjoyed by indigenes without any form of discrimination as rightly provided for in the constitution.
“Though the Bill seeks to achieve some commendable objectives, however, this can be achieved through enactment of law. If this Bill is passed, it would pose challenges with time especially on the issue of double or multiple indigenship,” the report stated.
Kalu who is the also chairman of the Constitution Review Committee of the House said 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.
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“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.
