Athena Perspectives Vol. 1 Issue 2
On June 10, 2024, a group of 35 members of the Nigerian House of Representatives proposed a bill advocating for a single six-year term for the President and state governors[1]. This bill seeks to amend Section 3 of the 1999 constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The key propositions of the bill are that the presidency should rotate among the six geopolitical zones, and there should be two Vice Presidents which will come from the northern and southern regions. The rationale behind the proposed amendment is to ensure equitable representation of all the regions in the leadership of the Nigerian state.
Against the background of Nigeria’s experience in the dynamics of tenure elongation and power sharing, the proponent of the bill argues that the proposed amendment when passed into law would not only reduce the financial burden of governance, but also diminish the intense struggle for power and the agitation for the creation of new states.
Historical Context and Past Attempts
The idea of the single-term tenure for the president and the introduction of multiple vice presidents is not new in Nigeria’s political discourse. During the National Constitutional Conference of 1994-95 under General Sani Abacha, there were proposals for a single five-year term for executive positions, the creation of multiple vice presidents, and formal recognition of the six geopolitical zones[2]. However, following Abacha’s sudden death in 1998, these plans were abandoned by the Constitutional Debate Co-ordinating Committee set up by the General Abdulsalami’s government to propose a constitution for the incoming 1999 civilian administration.
An attempt to remove term limits during former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s widely known as third term agenda, was met with strong opposition, particularly from the northern regions, and ultimately failed[3]. Similarly, President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration faced stiff resistance when the 2015 political reform conference proposed a constitutional amendment that will ensure a five-year single term for the president and governors. In the two different instances, the critics of these proposals often viewed them as politically motivated attempts to prolong the incumbents’ power rather than genuine efforts to improve governance[4].
Practical Implications and International Comparisons
Single-term presidencies are designed to prevent the entrenchment of power and promote regular political renewal. Countries like Mexico, the Philippines, and South Korea have successfully implemented such policies. Mexico’s “sexenio” enforces a strict six-year term for presidents with no possibility of re-election, while the Philippines also restricts its presidents to a single six-year term. In South Korea, the presidency is limited to one five-year term, ensuring that leaders focus on governance rather than re-election campaigns.
In Nigeria, the current system allows executives to seek a second four-year term, often leading to the misuse of state resources for re-election campaigns. Unlike advanced democracies where strict regulations govern the use of public resources in elections, Nigeria lacks robust mechanisms to prevent such abuses. For instance, while U.S. presidents can use Air Force One for campaign purposes, they must reimburse the government for the costs based on commercial charter rates, ensuring a clear distinction between official duties and campaign activities. Such measures maintain the integrity of democratic institutions and prevent unethical practices.
Moreover, advanced democracies have transparent systems for campaign funding, including fundraisers and public disclosures, which are often lacking in Nigeria. Argentina, for example, employs a stringent campaign funding monitoring system led by the National Electoral Chamber, which mandates audits and publicizes financial data to ensure transparency and balance in electoral processes.
Lessons from the Nigerian University system
The single tenure of five years for Vice-Chancellors in Nigerian public universities, formalized through the “University Autonomy Act” of 2012, offers a microcosm of how single-term governance can enhance stability and accountability[5]. This policy has significantly reduced internal conflicts and improved administrative focus in universities[6].
For example, at the University of Lagos, the tenure of Professor Rahamon Bello (2012-2017) under the single-term policy saw a reduction in leadership conflicts and a stronger focus on institutional development. Similarly, Professor Idowu Olayinka’s tenure at the University of Ibadan (2015-2020) led to significant advancements in research and university rankings, driven by the clear objectives set for his non-renewable term.
Recommendations
It is our position that given Nigeria’s complex and fragile political landscape, adopting a single term for executive positions and creating multiple vice presidents would prove beneficial for Nigeria. It would reduce the costs associated with re-election campaigns and promote political stability and accommodation. It would also ensure that elected political leaders focus their attention on efforts that will enhance governance and development rather than electoral politics. By ensuring a more stable and accountable leadership, this constitutional reform could foster a sense of unity and collaboration among diverse ethnic nationalities in Nigeria, paving the way for sustainable national development.
Issues in the News
Top four stories on our thematic areas in Nigeria
Governance- Bill for creation of new state for Southeast scales first reading
A bill seeking the creation of an additional state in the South-East geo-political zone has passed first reading at the House of Representatives. This legislative move is aimed at addressing demands for equitable representation and increased development in the region. The sponsor of the bill posited that creating a new state is expected to enhance governance and bring government closer to the people in the southeast[7].
For more details, read the full article here: https://dailypost.ng/2024/06/06/reps-pass-bill-to-create-new-state-in-south-east/
Health- Malnutrition: Northern States Record Over 100% Surge
Northern states have experienced a significant surge in malnutrition rates, with a reported increase of over 100%, according to Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF). This dramatic rise is attributed to a combination of factors including severe food insecurity, ongoing conflicts, and the economic downturn exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The situation is particularly dire for children, with MSF and local health authorities struggling to cope with the overwhelming number of cases. This alarming trend underscores the urgent need for enhanced humanitarian assistance and sustainable solutions to address the root causes of malnutrition in the region.
For more details, read the full article here:https://leadership.ng/malnutrition-northern-states-record-over-100-surge-msf/
Transport- FG unveils water transportation code to tackle boat accidents
The Nigerian federal government has introduced a new water transportation code aimed at reducing the frequency of boat mishaps. This regulatory framework seeks to enhance safety standards across the country’s inland waterways, which have been plagued by frequent and often fatal accidents. The new code mandates stricter safety measures, including proper boat maintenance, mandatory life jackets for passengers, and stringent operational guidelines for boat operators. The move is part of a broader effort to improve maritime safety and boost confidence in Nigeria’s water transport sector.
For more details, read the full article here:https://businessday.ng/maritime/article/fg-moves-to-curb-boat-mishaps-with-new-water-transportation-code/
Security- FG repairs vandalised Second Niger Bridge, tightens security
The government has completed repairs on the Second Niger Bridge following recent vandalism and has implemented heightened security measures to prevent future incidents. The bridge, which is crucial for connecting the southeastern and southwestern regions of Nigeria, had suffered significant damage from theft of cables and other structural elements. The authorities are now focusing on bolstering security with increased surveillance and patrols to protect this vital infrastructure from further vandalism and ensure its safe use by the public.
For more details, read the full article here:https://punchng.com/fg-repairs-vandalised-second-niger-bridge-tightens-security/
Regional Updates
Top stories from Benin, Cameroon, Chad, and Niger (BCCN)…
Benin Jails Three Nigeriens as Diplomatic Tension Increases
Benin has sentenced three Nigerien nationals to prison, escalating tensions between the neighboring countries. The individuals were convicted of illegal activities, though specifics were not disclosed, and this incident has fueled an ongoing diplomatic dispute. Niger has demanded the release of its citizens and accused Benin of exacerbating the bilateral tensions. The imprisonment reflects broader regional issues, including cross-border security and political dynamics[8].
Cameroon lawmakers examine legislation to address statelessness
Cameroon’s lawmakers are currently reviewing a draft bill aimed at reducing statelessness in the country. The proposed legislation focuses on improving birth registration systems and offering nationality to those who have no legal status. This initiative is part of a broader effort to address the issues faced by stateless individuals, estimated to be in the thousands, who lack access to education, healthcare, and employment due to their unrecognized status[9].
Sudan Requests Sanctions Against Chad
Sudan has formally requested sanctions against Chad, accusing them of supporting rebel forces in the ongoing conflict within Sudan. Sudanese authorities claim that both countries are providing military assistance to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), exacerbating the violence and instability. The move reflects rising regional tensions as Sudan struggles to maintain order amid a power struggle between the RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces.[10]
Niger stops oil exports to China over Benin disagreement
Niger has announced it will stop exporting oil to China via the Benin coast, suspending the use of a key pipeline under the China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC). This decision stems from local discontent over oil wealth management and environmental concerns, alongside recent attacks on the pipeline by local militant groups. The halt could significantly impact Niger’s economy, which depends heavily on oil revenues, and may strain its relations with China. The Nigerien government is likely to renegotiate contracts and seek better terms to address local grievances and secure more benefits from its natural resources[11].
[1]https://punchng.com/reps-propose-rotational-presidency-six-year-single-term/
[2]https://constitutionnet.org/sites/default/files/report_of_the_national_const._commission.pdf
[3]https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-18237812
[4]https://www.reuters.com/article/idUSJOE76R0EU/
[5]https://nigerianlawtoday.com/universities-miscellaneous-provisions-amendment-act-2012/
[7]https://dailypost.ng/2024/06/06/reps-pass-bill-to-create-new-state-in-south-east/
[8]https://www.channelstv.com/2024/06/14/benin-jails-three-nigeriens-as-diplomatic-spat-simmers/
[9]https://www.biometricupdate.com/202406/cameroon-lawmakers-examine-legislation-to-address-statelessness
[10]https://theatlasnews.co/latest/2024/06/17/sudan-requests-sanctions-against-chad-and-the-uae/
[11]https://www.offshore-technology.com/news/niger-stop-oil-exports-to-china-via-benins-coast/
