Full Details of Atiku’s Letter to Senate Emerge as He Proposes Rotational Presidency, Other Major Reforms
Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has submitted a memorandum to the Senate Committee on Constitutional Review, calling for significant changes to Nigeria’s constitution.
In the memorandum shared by his special adviser on media, Abdul Rasheeth, Atiku is advocating for a rotational presidency between the North and South, alongside a proposal for a six-year single term for both the president and governors.
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This proposal is not new for Atiku, who has consistently supported this tenure arrangement since his time serving as deputy to former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
Key Proposals in Atiku’s Memorandum:
1. Rotational Presidency:
Atiku suggests amending Section 135(2) to facilitate the rotation of the presidency among the six geopolitical zones of the federation, with a single term of six years for the officeholder. He stated, “The office of the President shall rotate among the six geopolitical zones of the federation on a single term of six years, flowing between the North and South on the single term of six years respectively.”
2. Educational Qualification: He proposes raising the minimum educational qualification for individuals seeking political office from the Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination to the Ordinary National Diploma.
3. Candidate Selection Process: Atiku recommends granting political parties increased authority in the candidate selection process. He suggests amending Section 65(2)(b) to require candidates to be registered members of their party, with their names submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) 30 days prior to primaries.
These reforms aim to address longstanding issues in Nigeria’s political landscape and enhance the democratic process. Atiku’s proposals, particularly the rotational presidency, are expected to reignite discussions on equitable representation and governance in the country.
