A coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) has urged the National Assembly to urgently conclude work on the 2025 Constitution Review, warning that continued delays could further undermine public confidence and threaten Nigeria’s democratic stability.
The groups raised the concern following the House of Representatives’ decision to postpone consideration of the Constitution Review Report containing 44 proposed amendments.
In a joint statement issued on Thursday in Abuja, the organisations said Nigeria “cannot afford further hesitation” on reforms that directly affect governance and national security.
“Nigerians cannot afford further uncertainty on constitutional reforms that are essential to our national security, democratic trust, and effective governance,” the CSOs said.
According to them, the proposed amendments address critical areas that influence the lives of citizens across the country, including local government autonomy, judicial strengthening, credible elections, and accountability in governance.
“These amendments speak directly to the daily realities of millions of Nigerians: safer communities, empowered local governments, credible elections, a stronger judiciary, and a more accountable state,” the groups noted, adding that citizens have already played their part through submissions, hearings and consultations across all geopolitical zones.
They stressed that while legislative scrutiny is important, prolonged delays pose serious risks.
“Scrutiny is necessary, but delays are dangerous. Insecurity is worsening, local governments are failing, voter confidence is dropping, and democratic legitimacy is eroding,” the statement added.
With the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) already releasing its timetable and political parties expected to conclude primaries by July 2026, the CSOs insisted that electoral reforms must not be stalled.
They warned that any further hesitation “risks locking the country into yet another flawed election cycle.”
The coalition called on lawmakers to demonstrate leadership by ensuring the Constitution Review process is completed before the end of 2025. According to them, “every delay weakens public trust, and decisive action can strengthen democracy and steady the nation ahead of 2027.”
The groups also reaffirmed their commitment to sustained engagement with citizens and lawmakers to ensure meaningful reform.
Organisations that signed the statement include Womanifesto, WILAN, TOS Foundation, CISLAC, WARDC, WIMBIZ, GSAI, The Women International, I-Teach Africa, and the National Secretariat for the Reserved Seats for Women Bill Campaign Coalition.
