A group of 35 members of the House of Representatives, known as the Reformed-minded Legislators, has proposed a bill seeking a single term of six years for the President and state governors. The bill also advocates for the rotation of the presidency among the six geopolitical zones of the country.
According to the spokesman for the group, Ikenga Ugochinyere, the proposed legislation aims to reduce the cost of governance, unite the country, and ensure a seamless transition and unprecedented development. The bill seeks to amend Section 3 of the constitution to recognize the six geopolitical zones and provide for a single tenure of six years for the President and governors.
Additionally, the lawmakers are pushing for amendments to create the office of two Vice Presidents, one from the southern and northern parts of Nigeria. The First Vice President would be a succession vice president, while the Second Vice President would be a minister in charge of the economy.
The bill also seeks financial autonomy and accountability of local government councils, prescribing an independent Consolidated Local Government Council Account solely superintended by Local Councils. It proposes long-term imprisonment for any misuse of local government funds.
On electoral reforms, the group proposed amendments to the Electoral Act to ensure all elections are held on the same day. They also seek to make election-related documents and materials available to participants and ensure that election-related litigations are resolved before the winners are sworn into office.
The lawmakers believe that these amendments will bring about a reduction in government spending and wastage, promote efficiency in governance, and national stability. They also hope that the proposed legislation will bond the country together and provide a sense of belonging for all Nigerians.