The Senate has taken a significant step towards amending the 1999 Constitution by constituting a 45-member committee tasked with reviewing and proposing amendments. Led by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, with Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele as deputy chairman, the committee comprises members representing all states and geopolitical zones.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio emphasized the need for constitutional amendments, citing issues that require rectification, particularly in light of advancements in artificial intelligence. He directed the committee to engage with Speakers of State Houses of Assembly to ensure inclusive input in the amendment process.
Meanwhile, in the House of Representatives, 60 members introduced three bills aimed at transitioning Nigeria from a presidential system to a parliamentary system of governance. Sponsored by Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda and others, the bills seek to replace the presidency with a prime minister as head of government and establish the president as a ceremonial leader. Additionally, the bills propose that governors and local government chairmen be elected by legislative bodies rather than through general elections.
The proponents argue that returning to a parliamentary system would enhance governance accountability, responsiveness, and efficiency while reducing the cost of governance. They call for national dialogue and informed public engagement to deliberate on the potential implications of these constitutional alterations.
These legislative initiatives reflect a concerted effort to address governance challenges and promote a more effective and cost-efficient system of government in Nigeria.