The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has voiced strong opposition to a bill proposing a single six-year term for the President and state governors, labeling it as “anti-democracy” and a move to restrict the people’s choice.
The bill, proposed by 35 members of the House of Representatives under the banner of Reformed-minded Legislators, also advocates for rotating the presidency among Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, arguing that this would reduce the cost of governance.
In a press conference held in Abeokuta on Thursday, NANS urged Nigerians, pro-democracy groups, organized labor, and trade unions to mobilize against the bill. Yekini Adewale, National Clerk of the Senate of NANS, described the bill as a “smokescreen” intended to distract Nigerians from the current economic challenges.
Adewale warned that the bill’s passage would undermine accountability, probity, transparency, and responsibility among political leaders. He emphasized that democracy relies on a balance among the three branches of government, but expressed concern that the legislature’s proposal would disrupt this balance and limit democratic choices.
“NANS, as a non-governmental organization and a key advocate for the survival and sustainability of our democracy, condemns the proposed bill and calls on Nigerians to oppose this self-serving agenda by unscrupulous politicians,” Adewale stated.
He argued that removing the possibility of a second term would lead to poor governance, as elected officials might prioritize personal gains over public service. Adewale also highlighted the importance of the electorate’s power to vote out non-performing leaders, which he said would be jeopardized by the bill.
To demonstrate their rejection of the bill, NANS plans to mobilize students nationwide for protests. Adewale announced that a day would be set for a mass march to the National Assembly, emphasizing that the student body is prepared to take significant action against what they see as a threat to democracy and good governance.
“If these bills are passed, our democracy is in jeopardy. We will not allow accountability, probity, transparency, and responsibility to be eroded from our political system,” Adewale declared.
