From Ndubuisi Orji, Abuja
The House of Representatives has rejected a bill for a six-year single tenure for president and governors, as well as rotation of the presidency, governorship and chairmanship of local government councils among the constituent parts.
The bill sponsored by the member representing Ideato North/ Ideato South Federal Constituency of Imo State and 63 others, had also sought the recognition of the six geo-political zones in the constitution, and conducted all elections in one day.
The proposed legislation, which was introduced in the House, in July, by the 34 lawmakers on the aegies of Reformed-minded Legislators, had sought to alter Sections 3, 7, 135, 137, 180 and 182 (1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
When the bill was called for second reading, at yesterday’s plenary, Ugochinyere promptly moved a motion for the second reading. The motion was seconded by the member representing Umuahia/ Ikwuano Federal Constituency, of Abia State, Obi Aguocha.
When the Speaker, Tajudeen Abbas, put the question for the bill to be read for the second time, preparatory for a debate on the general principles, the lawmakers rejected it through a voice vote.
Ugochinyere, at a press briefing, recently, explained that the proposed legislation was intended to unite the country and ensure development. He noted that the citizens should not be afraid to discuss the challenges confronting the country.
“We should not be afraid to meet and discuss our problems, challenges, fears, aspirations, and prospects as a people. We should not discuss in fear and we should never fear to discuss.
“On governance, we are proposing a constitutional alteration to provide for the rotation of executive powers among the six geopolitical zones to ensure equal representation and reduce the desperation and tempo of agitation for the creation of states. We are proposing to amend Section 3 of the constitution to provide for the recognition of the division of Nigeria into six geopolitical zones.
“And also, to amend the constitution to provide for a single tenure of six years for the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the state governors. This will bring about a reduction in government spending and wastage; promote efficiency in governance, and national stability by providing a single term of six years for the President and the governors.”