Law reform commissions across Nigeria have called for a review of the country’s legislative framework to strengthen federalism, expand the powers of state governments and guarantee effective local government autonomy.
The commissions also advocated fiscal federalism, full judicial federalism and a review of the Exclusive Legislative List to enable states to exercise greater control over matters within their jurisdiction.
The recommendations were contained in a communiqué issued on Friday at the end of the maiden Conference of All Law Reform Commissions in Nigeria, hosted by the Edo State Law Reform Commission at the John Odigie Oyegun Public Service Academy, Benin City.
The two-day conference, held from September 28 to 29, had the theme, “Consolidating Nigeria’s Democracy through Law Reform: Charting the Way Forward.”
The communiqué was signed by the Chairman of the Communiqué Drafting Committee, Prof. Donald Inegbedion, and the Edo State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Prof. Roland Otaru, SAN.
Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, delivered the opening address, while the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, was represented by Wale Fapohunda, SAN, who delivered the keynote address.
Commissions Seek Stronger Local Governments
The participants called for reforms to enable local governments to discharge their constitutional responsibilities and exercise the financial and administrative autonomy affirmed by the Supreme Court.
They stressed that increased allocations to local councils must translate into improved infrastructure and better access to essential services, including healthcare, food and shelter.
The communiqué warned that financial autonomy at the grassroots level would have limited value if it did not improve the living conditions of residents.
It stated that local government reforms must ensure that constitutional provisions translate into practical benefits for citizens through improved service delivery.
Demand Balance Between Security, Human Rights
On national security, the participants called for a balance between protecting the country and safeguarding the fundamental rights of citizens.
“The executive measures taken in the interest of national security must remain subject to judicial scrutiny,” the communiqué stated.
The conference also urged civil society organisations to remain vigilant against human rights violations allegedly committed under the guise of security operations.
It further called for a coordinated national intelligence-sharing system based on clearly defined responsibilities, cooperation among security agencies, accountability and digital readiness.
The participants also advocated reforms to police investigation procedures in line with international best practices and measures to strengthen accountability within law enforcement agencies.
Seek Action on Law Reform Recommendations
The conference expressed concern over delays in implementing recommendations submitted by law reform commissions and proposed a legal framework requiring the executive and legislative arms of government to consider and act on the reports within specified time frames.
The participants argued that failure by relevant authorities to act on the recommendations undermined the objectives of law reform and reduced its potential contribution to governance and national development.
They also called for adequate and sustainable funding, qualified personnel and modern infrastructure for law reform commissions across the country.
According to the communiqué, the commissions require sufficient institutional support to conduct research, review existing laws and recommend changes that reflect contemporary realities.
Propose Electoral, Education Reforms
On electoral matters, the participants advocated reforms to ensure that pre-election and post-election disputes are resolved before elections or inauguration, where applicable.
They said the proposed measures would help reduce prolonged litigation, promote certainty in the electoral process and ensure that electoral outcomes reflect the wishes of voters.
The conference also called for a comprehensive review of Nigeria’s tertiary education curriculum to incorporate emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence and robotics.
It said updating the curriculum was necessary to prepare students for technological changes associated with the Fifth Industrial Revolution.
The recommendations form part of broader proposals by the law reform commissions to strengthen democratic institutions, improve public administration and align Nigeria’s legal framework with changing national needs.
