A rising debate surrounds the issue of the presidential term limit in Nigeria, following a proposal by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to amend the country's constitution.
Atiku, who contested the 2023 presidential election under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has petitioned the Senate committee currently overseeing the constitutional review process, requesting an amendment to limit the presidential term to a single six-year tenure.
His proposal comes at a time when Nigeria's 1999 constitution is undergoing potential revisions, and various stakeholders, including experts, the public, and civil society groups, are sharing their views on what aspects of the constitution should be reformed.
In addition to suggesting a six-year single term for the presidency, Atiku also advocated for rotating the presidency among the six geopolitical regions of Nigeria to promote inclusivity and fairness.
Political figures and analysts have weighed in on the former vice president's proposal. Hon. Farouk Jarma, a member of the PDP, expressed support for the idea, calling it well-suited for Nigeria’s political landscape.
"This suggestion from the Wazir of Adamawa ensures that every region gets a chance to produce the president. If implemented, it could foster unity, reduce tensions arising from religious and ethnic differences, and ultimately bring about national development," Jarma stated.
He further argued that without such a reform, certain regions may feel disenfranchised and excluded from the presidency, which could lead to further division.
"A six-year term gives each elected president ample time to fulfill their agenda before stepping aside for another party or region to take over," he added.
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