By Emma Una, CALABAR

SENATOR Florence Ita says the present Nigerian Constitution does not address many critical areas necessary for democratic growth which is why efforts by the National Assembly to review the Constitution is a welcome exercise.

Speaking in Calabar on Tuesday, Ita Giwa who functioned as Chairman of the conference organised by former National Assembly members between the 1st to the 4th Republic said issues like true federalism, electoral reforms, insecurity and many other areas of Nigeria’s corporate existence need to be reviewed to enthrone justice and peace in the country.

“So many issues plaque the 1999 Nigerian Constitution and we in the Former Senators Forum are in support of review of that important document to serve as the Constitution that meets the expectation of majority of Nigerians ; a document acceptable to all Nigerians to enhance peace and security “.

She said the Forum has been going round all parts of the country to emphasise the need for all democratic institutions in the country to function in tandem with the will of the people to bring about progress and unity in the country.

Firmer Senate President , Ameh Ebute said democracy in Nigeria has suffered several set backs following frequent interruptions by the military and assured that after over two decades of continued democratic practice, it will be difficult for anti democratic forces to interrupt the process again.

“Democracy in Nigeria has been a victim. of frequent interruptions by the military but this time around democracy has come to stay”.

He called for support to the National in its effort to review the 1999 Constitution and make it a document which meets the of Nigerians and caters for the needs of the ordinary Nigerian in all parts of the country.