Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has reignited the debate on the tenure of elected officials in Nigeria, advocating for a single term of five or six years for the president, governors, and local government chairmen. Makinde believes that this system would allow elected officials to focus on governance without distractions, citing his own experience of losing valuable time to campaigning and distractions during his second term.
Arguments For and Against the Single Term Proposal
- *Madubuachi Idam*, a lawyer and activist, backs Makinde's call, arguing that the current two-term system is a distraction to incumbents, making it difficult for them to focus on tackling issues affecting the security and economic sectors of the country. Idam believes that a single six-year term would allow elected officials to prioritize development and governance over reelection ambitions.
- *Hakeem Baba-Ahmed*, former Political Adviser to President Bola Tinubu, disagrees, arguing that amending the constitution to provide for a single term would not change the quality of governance. Baba-Ahmed believes that the issue lies with the quality of politicians, not the system, and that Nigerians need to pay close attention to the kind of people they vote into power.
- *Ikenga Ugochinyere*, a member of the House of Representatives, also supports the single term proposal, arguing that it would reduce waste of public funds by elected officials. Ugochinyere believes that a single six-year term would bring more development and accountability to governance.
Constitutional and Practical Implications
- *Baba-Ahmed* also pointed out that the current National Assembly is unlikely to amend the constitution to reflect a single term system, given its alleged pocketing by the executive arm of government.
- *Idam*, however, urges the National Assembly to consider revisiting the single six-year term bill with urgency, arguing that it is essential for Nigeria's progress and stability.
Conclusion
The debate on Makinde's call for a single term for elected officials highlights the complexities and challenges of Nigeria's governance system. As stakeholders continue to weigh in on the proposal, it remains to be seen whether the single term system would bring about the desired benefits of improved governance and accountability.
