The Nigerian House of Representatives has passed a bill for the second reading that seeks to disqualify individuals above 60 from contesting for the offices of President and Governor.
If enacted, this legislation would bar several prominent politicians, including President Bola Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, from contesting in the 2027 elections.
Sponsored by Imo lawmaker Ikenga Ugochinyere, the bill proposes amendments to the 1999 Constitution, adjusting the eligibility criteria for presidential and gubernatorial candidates. It mandates that candidates must hold a university degree and be no older than 60 at the time of contesting for office.
Other Key Legislative Developments
In addition to the age limit bill, several other significant proposals passed the second reading during Thursday’s plenary session:
- Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education Bill – Seeks to grant federal status and funding to the institution in Imo State.
- Inclusion of Youths and Persons with Disabilities in Political Appointments Bill – Aims to ensure broader representation in governance.
- Trade and Commerce Bill – Proposes moving trade regulation to the concurrent legislative list to strengthen interstate commerce.
- Federal University of Education, Zaria Bill – Sponsored by Speaker Abbas and Rep. Yusuf Gagdi, this bill seeks to establish a specialized teacher training university.
- Reserved Seats for Women Bill – Advocates for designated legislative seats to enhance female representation in politics.
- Judicial Reforms Bills – Includes proposals to improve justice delivery timelines and expand the number of justices in the Supreme Court and Court of Appeal.
- New States Creation Bills – Proposes the establishment of Wan State (North Central) and Gobir State (North West).
These legislative efforts reflect ongoing moves to reform Nigeria’s political, economic, and judicial landscape.
