In a significant move, the House of Representatives has rejected a bill proposing a single six-year tenure for the President, state governors, and area council chairmen. The bill, sponsored by Ikenga Ugochinyere and 33 other lawmakers, aimed to amend sections 76, 116, 132, and 136 of the 1999 Constitution.
The proposed legislation sought to promote inclusive governance and reduce wastages associated with four-year periodic elections. Key amendments included:
Rotation of Presidency: Alternating the Office of the President between the North and South regions every six years.
Governorship Rotation: Rotating governorship among the three senatorial districts in each state.
Simultaneous Elections: Holding all elections (presidential, governorship, National Assembly, and state houses of assembly) on the same date.
Succession Plan: Allowing the First Vice President to assume the presidency if the elected president is unable to take office.
Despite its potential benefits, the bill was rejected via a voice vote by the lawmakers during a plenary session presided over by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas. This decision may impact Nigeria’s governance structure and election processes.
Interestingly, another proposal to revert to a parliamentary system of government, similar to Nigeria’s pre-independence system, has been introduced by 60 lawmakers. This system could potentially reduce government costs and foster closer collaboration between the executive and legislative branches. However, its chances of success remain uncertain.
