A group of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) has called on the National Assembly to quickly finish the 2025 Constitution Review, cautioning that further delays could damage public trust and potentially jeopardize Nigeria’s democratic stability.
The groups expressed their worry after the House of Representatives decided to postpone reviewing the Constitution Review Report, which includes 44 suggested changes.
In a combined statement released on Thursday in Abuja, the organisations stressed that Nigeria “cannot afford further hesitation” on necessary reforms related to national security and governance.
The CSOs stated that the proposed amendments address crucial areas affecting citizens nationwide, such as local government autonomy, stronger judicial systems, credible elections, and accountability in government.
They argued that these changes are directly relevant to the daily lives of Nigerians, leading to safer communities, empowered local governments, and a more accountable state, noting that citizens have already provided their input through hearings and consultations.
The coalition emphasized that while thorough examination is important, prolonged delays are hazardous. They pointed out that insecurity is worsening, local governments are struggling, voter confidence is declining, and democratic legitimacy is eroding.
Given that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has already issued its timetable and political parties are expected to complete primaries by July 2026, the CSOs insisted that electoral reforms must not be held up. They warned that continuous hesitation “risks locking the country into yet another flawed election cycle.”
The groups urged lawmakers to show leadership by ensuring the Constitution Review process is completed before the end of 2025, asserting that “every delay weakens public trust, and decisive action can strengthen democracy and steady the nation ahead of 2027.”
The CSOs that signed the statement included Womanifesto, WILAN, TOS Foundation, CISLAC, WARDC, WIMBIZ, GSAI, The Women International, I-Teach Africa, and the National Secretariat for the Reserved Seats for Women Bill Campaign Coalition.
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