Ahead of the public hearing for the Bill to establish the National council for Traditional Rulers of Nigeria sponsored by Senator representing Plateau South Senatorial District Simon Bako Lalong, a delegation from the Nigerian Monarchs has visited the sponsor of the Bill at the National Assembly Abuja.
Leading the delegation, King (Dr.) Appolus Chu, Oneh-eh Nchia X Egbere Emere Okori I of Eleme Kingdom, Rivers State and Chairman of the Interface Committee on Constitutional Review said they were mandated to come to the national assembly and convey the appreciation of the council to Senator Simon Bako Lalong and his colleagues for giving attention to their matters.
He said they have followed the passion and commitment of Senator Lalong to the Bill since the 9th Senate when he was the Chairman of the Northern Governors Forum where he did everything possible to ensure its passage.
King Appolos said the Traditional Rulers in Nigeria have taken note of the respect and reverence that Senator Lalong has for the institution which made him to represent the bill to the 10th Senate and work towards it’s passage.
The Traditional ruler said the Traditional authorities want to ensure that there is proper Interface and preparation for the public hearing which is crucial to ensuring its passage hence their visit.
Other members of the delegation also thanked the Senator for his passion and said when passed and included into the constitution, the Bill will enable the Traditional institution to play a more active and proactive role in dealing with challenges of the nation.
While welcoming them, Senator Lalong expressed delight on the interest that the bill has generated interest not only among the Traditional rulers but among Nigerians at large.
He said the passage of the Bill at second reading received overwhelming support from the senators who contributed to the debate and also made suggestions on how it can be enriched.
The former Plateau Governor told the Monarchs that the Senate President has promised to be part of be public hearing because of his belief in the importance of the Bill and its expected impact on the nation.
He urged them to make preparations to defend the bill during the public hearing and also make any other input to the presentation to make it more solid.
Lalong assured them that the Bill will also be featured into the consultational review so as to have its provisions captured into the constitution.
