A coalition of lawmakers in the House of Representatives is advocating for amendments to the 1999 Constitution to transition from the current presidential system to a parliamentary system of governance.
Comprising approximately 60 lawmakers, the group highlights the necessity of this transition in light of decreasing government revenue, aiming to streamline costs.
Titled “The Bills Proposing Constitutional Alterations For a Transition To Parliamentary System of Government,” the initiative is spearheaded by House Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda and 59 others. The bill was formally introduced during a plenary session in Abuja on Wednesday.
Abdussamad Dasuki, a spokesperson for the Parliamentary Bill Sponsors, emphasized the historic significance of the proposed transition, noting bipartisan support and diverse regional representation among the lawmakers involved.
The proposed amendments advocate for a transition to a parliamentary system at all government levels—federal, state, and local. Advocates argue that such alterations would significantly reshape the national political landscape.
Dasuki highlighted the foundational wisdom behind the parliamentary system, referencing its successful implementation during the First Republic.
He noted that this system fostered accountability, efficiency, and responsiveness to citizens’ needs.
Over time, he observed, the flaws of the Presidential System of Government have become evident, despite attempts to address them through constitutional amendments.
Key issues include the high cost of governance, excessive executive powers, and the resultant strain on resources for essential sectors like infrastructure, education, and healthcare.
The bills presented seek a return to the governance system embraced by Nigeria’s founders, aiming for greater accountability, responsibility, and cost-effectiveness in governance.