Nigeria’s House of Representatives Advocates for Six-Year Single Terms for Presidents and Governors
A significant movement is underway within Nigeria’s House of Representatives, where a group of 35 lawmakers, self-styled as the ‘Reform Minded Lawmakers,’ are advocating for a single six-year term for the country’s presidents and governors. This initiative, encapsulated in six draft bills that have already passed their first reading on the House floor, aims to overhaul the current political tenure structure.
Ikenga Ugochinyere, representing Ideato Federal Constituency in Imo State, is a co-sponsor of these bills. Speaking on behalf of the Reform Minded Lawmakers during a public presentation, Ugochinyere highlighted the group’s intent to “redefine and redesign” Nigeria’s political landscape. Their comprehensive reform agenda spans governance, economic restructuring, security, justice sector reform, and various social issues, all aimed at fostering national unity.
Proposed Constitutional Amendments
As part of their governance and political restructuring efforts, the reformers are pushing for constitutional amendments to introduce a single six-year term for presidents and state governors. The current structure allows for two terms of four years each. These proposed changes to the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which has undergone several amendments, are seen as crucial for achieving the group’s broader objectives.
In addition to the tenure changes, the lawmakers are advocating for the formal recognition of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. They propose the rotation of the offices of the president, governors, and local government chairmen among these regions to ensure equitable representation.
Simultaneous Elections
Another significant proposal is the synchronisation of elections. The Reform Minded Lawmakers want presidential, gubernatorial, national and state assembly, and FCT Area Council elections to be conducted on the same day. They argue that this approach will streamline the electoral process, reduce costs, and enhance voter participation.
Ugochinyere and his group believe that simultaneous elections will not only save money but also increase voter turnout and credibility. By having all elections on the same day, they contend that voter attention and engagement will be higher, and any issues with lower-level election results can be addressed promptly and transparently.
Broader Reform Agenda
The six draft bills are part of a broader package of 50 bills that the group of 36 House of Representatives members is pushing. Their overarching aim is to help Nigeria navigate and overcome its current challenges, which include disunity, weak institutions, insecurity, and inadequate healthcare.
In discussing the efficiency of conducting all elections on the same day, Ugochinyere explained: “Instead of wasting money on separate elections each Saturday, the country will benefit more if all elections are conducted on one day. This approach will also ensure higher voter turnout and consistent accreditation throughout the election process, enhancing the credibility of the results.”
Historical Context of Reform
Nigeria has a rich history of reform efforts. Notable initiatives include the Uwais Electoral Reform, the Ken Nnamani Electoral Reform, the Udoji Public Service Review Commission, and the National Conference organised by former President Goodluck Jonathan. Ugochinyere emphasised that it is time to adopt some of the recommendations from these past reforms that remain relevant today.
While this reform may change the running of electorial matters in the country there aare however some persons who will not buy into the Idea.
Six-Year Single Terms for Presidents and Governors
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