The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has revealed that the House will engage with the traditional institution in the ongoing review of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
Kalu, according to a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Levinus Nwabughiogu, spoke in Kano, during separate visits to the Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, and the Emir of Bichi, Nasir Ado, to felicitate with them on the recent occasion of the marriage ceremonies of their children.
At the palace of the Emir of Kano, he said the wisdom of the traditional rulers cannot be ignored in shaping the country. He said a role for the traditional rulers, which is not derived “from the Federal Government, not from the state or local government but from the constitution,” will help them perform their duties ‘without biases’.
The deputy speaker thanked the emir for coming to Bende, Abia State, last December, during his grand civic reception and the unveiling of PISE-P.
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“We came to give our best wishes to the new family that just started yesterday. They will live long and give you children, grand and great grandchildren. They will not be less than you. They will be greater than you because that is the wish of every parent, that his children will grow and become greater, more powerful than themselves. That is how you measure your success. That is my prayer. I apologise that I did not make it not because I did not want to but a national duty called.
“You play a fundamental role in this nation and peace in the land. You have a role to play in making sure we imbibe this agenda. Thank you for the support you are giving to the president. It is very obvious you are partnering with the Federal Government to ensure there is peace and prosperity in this country. Keep doing what you are doing. It is yielding fruits,” he said.
Similarly, at the palace of the Emir of Bichi, he felicitated with the emir, congratulating him on the marriage of his children.
Kalu, while describing the emir as a valued friend and brother, recalled his role in the launch of PISE-P, appreciating him for flying in from abroad at the time to attend his civic reception last December.