Senator Abba Patrick Moro, representing Benue South Senatorial District and serving as Senate Minority Leader, has introduced the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (Alteration) Bill, 2024.
The bill, which passed its First Reading in the Senate on Wednesday, aims to amend the 1999 Constitution to implement a rotational system of power among Nigeria’s geo-political zones, senatorial zones, and federal constituencies.
Key provisions of the bill include:
1. Rotation of the Presidency:
– The office of the President would rotate among the six geo-political zones.
– Each state within a zone would hold the presidency for a maximum of two terms, ensuring inclusivity and representation in Nigeria’s democracy.
– A zone that has produced a President would not be eligible until other zones have had their turn.
2. Rotation of Governorship:
– The office of the governor in each state would rotate among the three senatorial zones.
– Each senatorial zone would have the opportunity to produce a governor, promoting inclusivity and development.
3. Rotation of Senatorial Elections:
– Senatorial elections would rotate among all federal constituencies within the senatorial zone.
– Each federal constituency would have the chance to elect a senator, fostering inclusion and social progress.
4. Rotation of House of Representatives Membership:
– Each local government within a federal constituency would rotate representation in the House of Representatives.
– A local government that has had a representative would not be eligible until all local governments within the constituency have been represented.
– Representatives would serve full terms validated by the electorate through elections.
The bill aims to ensure broader participation, representation, and inclusivity in Nigeria’s political processes, addressing concerns of marginalization and promoting social development.
