Kalu Steps Down Indigeneship Bill on Residency Rights Amid Stakeholder Pushback

By James Adamu, Abuja

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, has decided to withdraw the proposed Indigeneship Bill for further legislative review following extensive discussions with stakeholders.

Spear News reports that the bill, which aimed to grant indigeneship rights to settlers after ten years of residency, was greeted with significant concerns from various groups, particularly in the South West.

Critics had viewed the bill as an attempt by the South East to expand influence, leading to widespread debate over its implications.

In a statement released Tuesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Levinus Nwabughiogu, Kalu clarified that the bill’s primary goal was to foster national unity, equity, and inclusiveness for all Nigerians, regardless of their place of residence.

However, acknowledging the concerns raised by stakeholders, Kalu emphasised the importance of listening to public feedback and opted to step down the bill for further deliberation.

He also referenced a Bill Analysis Report from the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), which recommended that state legislatures should instead consider laws to ensure equal rights and privileges for settlers.

“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”, Kalu noted.

The Deputy Speaker said he was committed to ensuring that every legislative proposal reflects the wishes of the people.

He added: “As leaders and Representatives, we remain committed to ensuring that every legislative proposal reflects the aspirations of the people we serve.

“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.”