By Joy Odor
The Benue Rebirth Movement (BRM) has made a significant submission to the North Central public hearing on constitutional review, advocating for key amendments to promote equity, national unity, and political stability in Nigeria.
The Key Proposals, presented by Chief Odatse-Peters Kelvin outlines that: Mandatory power rotation across presidency, governorship, senate, and House of Representatives to ensure inclusivity and address marginalization.
BRM renews its call for the creation of Apa State from Benue State, citing economic viability, abundant resources, and the need to bring governance closer to the people.
Constitutional immunity for first-class traditional rulers, with accountability measures, to preserve their dignity and functional relevance.
According to Kelvin the Rationale include:-
– *National Unity:* BRM believes these proposals will promote national cohesion, justice, and development.
– *Grassroots Development:* The creation of Apa State and rotational governance will foster economic growth, reduce political tension, and increase representation.
– *Democratic Stability:* Institutionalizing power rotation and shielding traditional rulers from political interference will enhance democratic stability.
Reaffirming its commitment to grassroots development and balanced resource allocation, the BRM renewed its call for the creation of Apa State from the existing Benue State.
The movement outlined compelling statistics in support of the demand, citing:
Over 15,000 square kilometers of arable land;
Rich deposits of limestone, gold, baryte, and salt;
Abundant human resources and strategic economic viability;
The need to bring governance closer to the people.
According to BRM, this move will not only foster economic growth but also reduce political tension and increase representation.
Immunity and Defined Role for Traditional Institutions
In an addendum to the Traditional Institutions Bill, the Forum advocates for the inclusion of constitutional immunity for first-class traditional rulers, shielding them from political interference and prosecution for actions taken in good faith.
However, the BRM insists that accountability must remain. It proposes that any disciplinary process should be preceded by a judicial inquiry, managed by a 15-member jury of reputable individuals, and supervised by both the state and national judicial commissions.
This system, BRM argues, will preserve the dignity and functional relevance of traditional rulers, particularly in grassroots dispute resolution and social order.
The BRM therefore appeals to the 10th National Assembly to prioritize these critical legislations, demonstrating statesmanship and commitment to national development.
