Constitution amendment separates attorney general, justice minister’s office - Nexus News

The National Assembly constitution review committee has moved the office of Minister of Justice from that of Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), stating that the separation will make the latter independent, non-partisan and reestablish dignity to the justice system.

The committee also removed ownership of airports and railway transportation from the exclusive list, with a view to improving transportation.

Idris Wase, Chairman, House committee on constitution review and Deputy Speaker, who submitted the report before lawmakers during plenary, yesterday, emphasized that the committee carried out its assignment diligently.

Stating some of the contents of the 68 clauses reviewed in the Constitution, spokesman of the House, Benjamin Kalu, noted that many Nigerians had doubted early submission of the committee’s report.

He reported that the ninth Assembly has done the most comprehensive amendment of the Constitution.

The review makes provision for financial autonomy for the judiciary, to ensure quick and fair dispensation of justice, and also local councils.

Besides, it delisted the office of the minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), making room for a mayoral seat for indigenous people of the FCT, so they can have a representative in the Federal Executive Council.

The power sector, among many others, was not excluded, as states are allowed to generate and distribute electricity to end epileptic power supply in the country.

With the amendment, the debate surrounding collection of Value Added Tax (VAT) has moved favorably to the Federal Government.

ALSO, the Senate said it has adopted a review that will give opportunities to womenfolk to produce one female senator each in the 36 states of the federation, including the Federal Capital Territory.

This was revealed at the plenary when the lawmakers welcomed the wife of the President, Aisha Buhari, who visited the chamber to drum up support for the same purpose.

The First Lady was also on ground to witness the presentation of the review report.

MEANWHILE, the Senate has passed a bill soliciting to establish the Nigerian Maritime Security Trust Fund.

The new law provides funds for equipment and machinery that would assist seamless protection of waterways by the Nigerian Navy.

According to the Senate, the bill will increase the economy because oil, which is the mainstay of the Nigerian economy.

Original sponsor of the bill, Yusuf Gbagi (APC, Plateau), noted that it is important that the Nigerian Navy is equipped and trained to control the excesses of pirates, oil thieves, and illegal activities on the nation’s waterways that could ruin the nation’s economic development.