Rita Odafe
Members of the House of Representatives have turned down a proposal intended to revise the 1999 constitution to introduce a rotational system for the presidency and vice presidency, distributing these roles among Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
This initiative was put forward by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Okezie Kalu and is formally titled: ‘A Bill for an Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Cap. C23, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 to Provide for the Principle of Rotation of the Offices of the President and the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria among the Six Geopolitical Zones of the Country, Namely: North Central, North East, North West, South East, South South, and South West and for Related Matters (HB. 2291).’
Reports indicate this bill was one of seven constitutional amendments planned for a second reading during the House session on Tuesday, May 13, 2025.
After the House Leader presented the titles of these bills, the Deputy Speaker, overseeing the session, invited lawmakers to express their opinions on the proposals.
During the debate, Rep Aliyu Madaki (NNPP, Kano) voiced his opposition, arguing that the current federal character principle adequately addresses the issues the bill seeks to solve.
He suggested that the decision about zoning the presidency should remain with political parties, claiming there’s no need to codify this in the constitution.
In opposition, Rep Ali Isah (PDP, Gombe) supported the bill, stating that enshrining a rotational presidency would enhance fairness and inclusiveness across all regions.
Rep Sada Soli (APC, Katsina) also rejected the bill, claiming it could harm national cohesion and might favor mediocrity over merit in leadership roles.
“This could amplify regional and ethnic interests at the cost of competency. It limits the choices for those running for office and fosters regional rivalries, undermining our unity,” Soli noted.
Kalu responded to Soli’s arguments by disputing the idea that it would promote mediocrity, affirming that every geopolitical zone has capable candidates for the presidency and vice presidency.
He pointed out that the bill aims to ensure all regions can engage in governance and national progress. Rep Shina Oyedeji expressed concerns, contending that the essence of democracy lies in competitive participation.
He argued that implementing zoning and regional sentiments contradicts democratic principles, remarking, ‘Everyone should have an equal chance to run for election when the opportunity arises.’
Rep Bello El-Rufai (APC, Kaduna) similarly opposed the proposal, cautioning that making rotational presidency a constitutional mandate could stir regional and ethnic conflicts given the country’s diverse population.
After extensive discussions on the matter, the Deputy Speaker called for a voice vote, which overwhelmingly saw opposition to the bill, leading to a decision in favor of the nays.
