Nigerian House of Reps Moves to Set Age Limit for Presidential, Gubernatorial Candidates
The House of Representatives has passed for second reading a bill that seeks to bar individuals above 60 years from contesting for the offices of President and Governor in Nigeria. Sponsored by Rep. Ikeagwuonu Ugochinyere, the proposed amendment to the 1999 Constitution would introduce an age limit for these positions while also requiring candidates to hold at least a Bachelor’s degree.
The bill specifically seeks to amend Section 131 for presidential candidates and Section 177 for gubernatorial candidates to enforce the new age restrictions. If passed, this legislation would prevent political figures like President Bola Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and Peter Obi from contesting future elections.
Alongside this, the House also passed several other bills for second reading. These include the Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education Bill, which aims to upgrade Alvan Ikoku College of Education in Imo State to a federal university, and a bill for the creation of Ideato West Local Government Area in Imo State.
Other notable bills include one mandating the inclusion of youths and persons with disabilities in political appointments, another proposing the movement of trade and commerce to the Concurrent Legislative List, and a bill seeking reserved seats for women in national and state assemblies. Judicial reforms were also considered, including bills to increase the number of justices in the Supreme Court and Court of Appeal, and measures to expedite judicial processes.
Additionally, the House is considering bills for the creation of new states, including Wan State in the North Central region and Gobir State in the Northwest. These legislative efforts aim to reshape governance, enhance inclusivity, and improve the country’s political and judicial systems.
