Some members of the House of Representatives have pledged to reintroduce a bill proposing a six-year single term for Nigeria’s president, despite its earlier rejection by the House.
The bill, sponsored by 34 lawmakers, seeks to amend the 1999 Constitution to change the presidential tenure from two four-year terms to a single six-year term.
Ikenga Ugochinyere (PDP-Imo), who led the sponsorship of the bill, disclosed the lawmakers’ resolution in a statement on Friday in Abuja, following its rejection during Thursday’s plenary session.
The bill also proposed establishing a six-year single term for governors and local government chairpersons, as well as introducing zonal rotation of presidential and governorship seats. Additionally, it recommended holding all elections on the same day nationwide.
Ugochinyere expressed optimism, emphasizing that further consultations would be made to ensure the bill’s reintroduction. He stressed that the rejection of the bill would not halt the push for reform.
“The struggle to reform our constitutional democracy to ensure inclusivity and provide justice, equity, and fairness has not been lost,” he said.
He added, “The decision on the floor of the House not to allow the bill for a six-year single tenure and unified elections will not halt the agitation.”
Ugochinyere described the rejection as a temporary setback and reiterated his commitment to the bill’s objectives.
“We will review this decision and explore ways to reintroduce the bill, following proper legislative procedures,” he said. “Our advocacy will continue, and we aim to convince our colleagues to see the benefits of these reforms.”
He argued that holding all elections on the same day would reduce costs and curb electoral malpractice, while a rotational power structure would ease political tensions. He further stated that a six-year single term would enable elected leaders to focus more on fulfilling their mandates.
“We remain determined to achieve a more inclusive and efficient democratic process,” Ugochinyere concluded.
