Advocacy for Rotational Presidency Gains Momentum in Constitution Review Discussions

The House of Representatives Committee on Constitution Review has received a bill advocating for the rotation of power among Nigeria’s geo-political zones, senatorial zones, and federal constituencies in presidential, governorship, and senatorial elections. The bill, sponsored by Ojema Ojetu, representing Apa/Agatu Federal Constituency in Benue State, aims to address cries of marginalization from various regions and localities within Nigeria.

If passed and assented to, the bill may reshape the political landscape by prohibiting zones that have produced the President since 1999 from producing another until other zones have had their turn. The proposed legislation suggests a rotational system where the presidency will move among the six geo-political zones, with each state holding the office for a maximum of two terms of four years each.

The bill also suggests that the rotation should be effective from May 29, 1999, when the current constitution came into effect. Additionally, similar rotational principles are proposed for governorship offices within states, aiming to provide a sense of inclusion, participation, and representation for citizens.

Since the return to democracy in 1999, only the South-West, North-West, and South-South regions have produced Nigerian Presidents. Stakeholders, including the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) and the factional Secretary-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, express support for the bill, emphasizing its potential to bring about a more inclusive political landscape.

However, some skeptics, like Mailafia Gwamna, a chieftain of the ruling APC, caution against placing too much hope in the bill, highlighting the historical challenges of implementing similar principles. Despite the varying opinions, the proposal has ignited a crucial debate on the need for a legal framework to ensure a fair and equitable distribution of political power across Nigeria’s diverse regions.