By Abigail Philip David
A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Yusuf Ali, has proposed the adoption of a six-year single term for the offices of the President and state governors in Nigeria.
Ali made this suggestion on Friday during the inauguration of the remodeled Central Mosque in Ifetedo, Osun State, a project he personally financed. He argued that a six-year single term would eliminate the challenges of self-succession and reduce political conflicts often associated with second-term ambitions.
“I have always advocated for a single six-year tenure for our system,” he said. “It would put an end to the struggle for self-succession after the first four years. With a six-year term, you know your time is limited, and this would bring relative peace.”
Ali also emphasized that the major issues affecting governance in Nigeria are not due to constitutional shortcomings but a lack of character among leaders.
“There are provisions in the constitution to deal with bad leadership, such as impeachment,” he explained. “But whether we use these provisions wisely or abuse them depends on our character. Unfortunately, many of us lack the integrity needed to make the system work effectively.”
He further stressed that unless Nigerians change their attitudes, the country will struggle to achieve meaningful progress.
“Nothing will take us to any Eldorado if we don’t change our attitudes. Character is essential for a system to work well,” Ali added.
On the mosque remodeling project, Ali described it as a response to a divine call and urged Nigerians to prioritize giving back to society.
“What motivated me to remodel the central mosque is the call of Allah,” he said. “Those whom Allah has blessed should help others. You take nothing with you after death. The best investment is in people, institutions, communities, and humanity.”
Speaking at the event, the Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, commended the project. He urged the community to use the mosque not only for prayers but also for other activities that contribute to the development of Islam and the community.
“This mosque should not just be a place of worship but a hub for developmental engagements,” Oloyede said.
