House Rejects Bill for Single Six-Year Term, Zonal Presidency

• Nov 21, 2024

The House of Representatives has rejected a bill proposing significant amendments to Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, including a single six-year term for the President, State Governors, and Local Government Chairmen. The bill also sought to establish legal backing for the zonal rotation of presidential and governorship seats and holding all elections on a single day.

Sponsored by Rep. Ikenga Ugochinyere (PDP-Imo) and 33 other lawmakers, the bill aimed to amend Sections 76, 116, 132, and 136 of the Constitution. Its main objectives were to promote inclusive governance and reduce costs associated with four-year periodic elections.

Introducing the bill for a second reading, Rep. Ugochinyere argued that the proposed amendments would address governance imbalances and streamline election processes. He received support from another lawmaker, who seconded the motion.

However, when Speaker Abbas Tajuddeen called for a voice vote, the majority of lawmakers opposed the bill, leading to its rejection. The Speaker announced that the “Nays” had it, and the bill failed to pass the second reading.

Key provisions of the proposed amendments included:

Rotating the presidency between Nigeria’s North and South every six years, with further rotation among geopolitical zones within each region.

Conducting all elections for President, Governors, National Assembly, State Houses of Assembly, and Local Government Councils on the same date, as determined by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in consultation with the National Assembly.

Modifying several sections of the Principal Act to align with these proposals.

Despite the setback, Rep. Ugochinyere vowed to reintroduce the bill, emphasizing its potential to address governance challenges. “We will re-present the proposal for a six-year single term, rotational presidency/governorship, and all elections in one day,” he said.

The bill’s rejection underscores the contentious nature of constitutional amendments in Nigeria, particularly those affecting the structure of governance and electoral processes. Proponents believe the changes could foster unity and efficiency, while opponents argue they might disrupt the current political system.

The debate is expected to continue as advocates of the reforms prepare to push for reconsideration in the future.