Atiku Abubakar, former Vice President and the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has submitted a proposal to the National Assembly, calling for a significant change in the Constitution. His primary request is an adjustment to the current structure of leadership, advocating for a six-year single term tenure for both the President and state governors. This proposal seeks to reduce the current two-term system, with the hope of streamlining governance and reducing the influence of re-election campaigns on leadership.
In a formal document submitted to the Senate Committee on Constitutional Review, Atiku highlighted additional reforms he believes would benefit Nigeria’s political structure. One of his major recommendations is the rotation of the presidency between the northern and southern regions of the country. By alternating leadership between these regions, Atiku believes that political power would be better balanced across the nation’s diverse regions.
Atiku’s idea of a six-year tenure isn’t entirely new. During the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, a similar proposal was put forward, suggesting that such a term structure would bring more stability to the office. Since the 2023 general elections, Atiku has remained a vocal supporter of this tenure proposal, believing that it could promote continuity and efficiency in governance.
In his submission, Atiku urged lawmakers to amend Section 135(2) of the Constitution, ensuring the President leaves office after completing a six-year term. This, he argues, would align with the proposed changes to the political system.
Beyond tenure, Atiku also recommended several other constitutional amendments. He suggested changes to the electoral process, including a revision to Section 285(14)(a), which would replace the word “aspirant” with “voter.” This change is aimed at making the process more inclusive and voter-focused.
Another significant proposal from Atiku involves raising the minimum educational qualification for political candidates. He believes that anyone aspiring to hold public office should at least have an Ordinary National Diploma, rather than just a Senior Secondary School Certificate, which is the current requirement.
Atiku’s proposals also emphasize the importance of political parties in the candidate selection process, advocating for parties to play a more direct role. His vision of a six-year tenure, along with these other reforms, reflects his desire for a more structured and equitable political system in Nigeria.