Atiku reacts as reps reject six-year single term for President, Govs

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticized the House of Representatives for rejecting the bill proposing a six-year single term for Nigerian presidents and governors.

As the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku described the lawmakers’ decision as unfortunate, highlighting their failure to recognize Nigeria’s pressing challenges.

According to reports, the bill, sponsored by Ikenga Ugochinyere and 33 other legislators, was rejected through a voice vote during Thursday’s plenary session.

The proposal, which advocates a single six-year term for elected officials, had also been dismissed during the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan.

In October, Atiku submitted a memorandum to the National Assembly supporting a rotational presidency between the Northern and Southern regions.

Reacting to the House’s decision, Atiku’s media aide, Paul Ibe, noted that the former vice president had hoped the bill would encourage elected officials to focus on governance, reducing political distractions for presidents and governors.

He said, “So, it is sad that it was rejected, and we need to ensure that the laws we make promote the well-being of Nigerians and strengthen democracy in both word and deed.

“That is what this law was meant to do. Unfortunately, the House did not see this. It is unfortunate, and we hope that it is revisited, so they can realise that they have made a mistake.”

Ikenga Ugochinyere (PDP, Imo), the lead sponsor of the constitutional amendment bill proposing a six-year single tenure for the president and governors, has stated that the rejected bill will be reintroduced.

According to reports, the House of Representatives rejected the bill during its second reading on Thursday. The proposed amendment also seeks to consolidate all elections on a single day and establish a rotational presidency between the North and South geopolitical zones of the country.

Despite the rejection, lawmakers have pledged to conduct further consultations before bringing the bill back for consideration.

In a statement issued in Abuja, Ugochinyere emphasized that the decision in the House does not mark the end of the campaign, expressing confidence that their objectives will eventually be achieved.