By Habeeb Ibrahim
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called on the National Assembly to consider a constitutional amendment introducing a single six-year term for the President and state governors.
In a memorandum submitted to the Senate Committee on Constitutional Review, Atiku also advocated for a rotational presidency between Nigeria’s Northern and Southern regions.
Atiku’s proposal follows similar discussions initiated by former President Goodluck Jonathan, who in 2011 suggested a constitutional amendment for a single presidential term to focus more on governance and reduce political tension. Jonathan’s plan, however, did not extend his own term but was aimed at future administrations.
Atiku urged the National Assembly to amend Section 135(2) to state that “the President shall vacate office after serving a single six-year term.”
His recommendation also aligns with a recent push from 30 members of the House of Representatives, operating under the banner of ‘Reform Minded Lawmakers,’ who have sponsored a bill for a six-year single term for the President and governors.
In addition, Atiku proposed changes to Section 285(14)(a), suggesting that the term “substitution of an aspirant” be replaced with “a voter,” enhancing the role of voters in the electoral process.
On educational qualifications, Atiku suggested raising the minimum requirement for candidates from the Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination to the Ordinary National Diploma (OND). He proposed that Section 65(2)(a) be amended to reflect this, with candidates required to submit certificates to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), or provide an affidavit in case of lost credentials.
Atiku also emphasized the need for political parties to play a larger role in candidate selection. He suggested updating Section 65(2)(b), ensuring candidates are registered party members and that their details are submitted to INEC 30 days prior to party primaries.
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