The House of Representatives has rejected a constitutional amendment bill that sought to limit the terms of the President, Governors, and Local Government Chairmen to a single six-year term. The bill, sponsored by Ikenga Ugochinyere (PDP, Imo) and co-signed by 33 others, also proposed rotational leadership and simultaneous elections for political offices.

Key Provisions of the Bill

1. Single Six-Year Term: The bill aimed to replace the current two four-year terms for executive offices with a single six-year tenure.
2. Zonal Rotation: It suggested dividing the country into six geopolitical zones, rotating the presidency and governorships among these regions.
3. Simultaneous Elections: All elections, including those for the President, Governors, National, and State Assemblies, would be held on the same day under the supervision of INEC in consultation with the National Assembly.
4. Succession Plan: If a President-elect died or was unable to assume office, the First Vice President-elect would automatically take over.
5. Governor Performance Review: Governors would be required to present a midterm performance report, and State Houses of Assembly could initiate impeachment proceedings if the report was deemed unsatisfactory.

Debate Blocked

Despite the comprehensive proposals, lawmakers refused to allow Ugochinyere to present a debate on the bill. This action effectively stalled its progression.

The rejection signifies the complexity of constitutional reforms in Nigeria, particularly when addressing contentious issues like term limits, rotational leadership, and governance structures.

ACCOMPLISH MAGAZINE