By Joshua Egbodo
Abuja
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Emeka Ihedioha, has stated that the National Assembly did not target anybody or institution in passing the amendment bill of the 1999 Constitution, adding that rather, it acted in the overall best interest of Nigerians.
Speaking at a ceremony when the bill was transmitted to Houses of Assembly on Tuesday, Ihedioha said: “Let me use this opportunity to say that we are not at loggerheads with anybody or institution. Some of the amendments are not intended to little down the powers of any tier of government, or to undermine any tier.”
He added: “They simply reflect the views of Nigerians which was expressed at the Peoples Public Sessions, conducted in the 360 Federal Constituencies of Nigeria.
“I dare say that in a Constitutional democracy which we are operating, the voice of the people should count for something. It is easy for some people to sit in the comfort of their offices and homes and pontificate on what they think that Nigerians want. It is a different thing when the view of Nigerians are sought directly as we did.
“To each of our institutions, the Constitution gave a sacred mandate and a unique role. We have played our part. We expect you to play yours.”