A coalition of prominent Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) has issued a strong appeal to Nigeria's National Assembly, demanding the immediate conclusion of the ongoing 2025 constitution review process.
CSOs Voice Deep Concern Over Delays
In a joint statement released on Thursday, 5 December 2025, the groups expressed serious alarm over the decision by the House of Representatives to postpone the consideration of a crucial Constitution Review Report. This report contains a total of 44 critical amendments deemed vital for the nation's progress.
The statement was endorsed by organisations such as The Women International, I-teach Africa, and the National Secretariat for the Reserved Seats for Women Bill Campaign. They collectively argued that Nigeria is in a precarious state and cannot tolerate any further uncertainty regarding reforms that are fundamental to national security, public trust in democracy, and effective governance.
Amendments Address Pressing National Issues
The CSOs emphasised that the proposed amendments are not abstract legal concepts but are directly connected to the everyday experiences of Nigerians. They highlighted several key areas the reforms aim to address:
- Creating safer communities and tackling worsening insecurity.
- Empowering local governments, which are currently failing.
- Restoring confidence in the electoral process through credible elections.
- Strengthening the judiciary for better justice delivery.
- Ensuring a more accountable and transparent government.
"Scrutiny is necessary, but delays are dangerous," the statement declared. "Insecurity is worsening, local governments are failing, voter confidence is dropping, and democratic legitimacy is eroding. Electoral reforms are especially urgent."
Immediate Action Crucial for 2027 Elections
The organisations pointed to the upcoming electoral cycle as a major reason for urgency. They warned that expediting the constitution review is essential to enable the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to perform its duties more efficiently and without bias.
"With INEC's timetable already set and party primaries concluding by July 2026, any further hesitation risks locking the country into yet another flawed election cycle," the CSOs cautioned.
They reminded lawmakers that citizens from all geopolitical zones have already fulfilled their civic duty by actively participating in submissions, public hearings, and consultations. The ball is now in the court of the National Assembly to deliver on its part of the democratic bargain.
The coalition issued a final, powerful call to action: "The National Assembly must show leadership and conclude the 2025 Constitution Review before the end of this year. Every delay weakens public trust; decisive action can strengthen democracy and steady the nation ahead of 2027."
The CSOs reaffirmed their commitment to continue mobilising citizens, engaging directly with legislators, and holding all institutions accountable until meaningful constitutional reform is achieved.
