In a significant legislative turn, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has formally withdrawn his proposed Indigeneship Bill, citing the need for broader stakeholder engagement and consensus-driven deliberations.
The move was announced Tuesday in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Levinus Nwabughiogu, following what Kalu described as “constructive feedback” from diverse quarters and a technical review by the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS).
“Though the bill seeks to achieve commendable goals, these can be more appropriately realised through state-level legislation,” NILDS noted in its assessment. “At the federal level, such a bill could pose future complications — especially concerning double or multiple indigeneship claims.”
The bill, originally designed to foster national cohesion, equity, and inclusion, sought to grant Nigerians the right to claim indigeneship in any state where they have legally resided for a certain number of years — rather than being tied solely to their state of origin.
However, the proposal stirred widespread controversy. Critics argued that it could undermine existing socio-cultural structures, complicate access to local privileges, and ignite disputes over identity and belonging.
NILDS recommended that the objectives of the bill be pursued through state assemblies, allowing local governments to legislate inclusion measures tailored to their demographic realities.
“States should enact laws enabling long-term residents to enjoy the same rights as indigenes, free from discrimination — as already guaranteed by the Constitution,” the report stated.
Kalu, who also chairs the House Committee on Constitution Review, said his decision to withdraw the bill underscores his commitment to a transparent and participatory lawmaking process.
“No legislative effort should proceed without the backing of the people,” he said. “As elected representatives, our duty is to ensure that our proposals truly reflect the yearnings and realities of the citizens.”
He encouraged Nigerians to remain actively engaged in the ongoing constitutional amendment process, which he described as “inclusive, transparent, and open-ended.”
“We are building a stronger, fairer, and more united Nigeria — and that can only be achieved through dialogue, trust, and a shared national vision,” Kalu added.
