Atiku Calls for Rotational Presidency and Changes to Election Laws in Nigeria

In a bold move aimed at addressing electoral challenges in Nigeria, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has proposed key amendments to the 1999 Constitution. His recommendations, submitted to the Senate, advocate for the introduction of rotational presidency among the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria, a reform that seeks to foster national unity and equity in governance.

The proposal was outlined in a memorandum dated August 30, 2024, addressed to Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, who also chairs the Senate Committee on Constitution Review. Atiku’s recommendations come at a time when calls for restructuring Nigeria’s political system are growing, with a focus on improving electoral integrity and strengthening democracy.

In his submission, Atiku highlighted the need for constitutional amendments that would raise the educational qualifications required for political officeholders, enforce internal democracy within political parties, and reduce violations of electoral laws. He pointed out that current laws provide excessive latitude for political parties to breach electoral rules, resulting in instability within the system.

One of the key recommendations in his proposal is a six-year single-term rotational presidency between the North and South, aimed at promoting inclusivity. This proposal mirrors previous calls for power rotation made during the 2014 National Conference, although such recommendations were not implemented by the government at the time.

Atiku has long been an advocate for political reform, with his latest proposal building on his extensive political career that includes multiple runs for the presidency. His vision for electoral reform and rotational leadership is designed to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic system and promote fairness in leadership distribution across the country.

For more information, read the full statement by Atiku’s media office here.

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Signed:Paul IbeMedia Adviser to Atiku AbubakarVice President of Nigeria (1999-2007) and Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party

(2023)Abuja, October 2, 2024)