The House of Representatives has passed for second reading a constitutional amendment bill seeking to bar individuals above 60 years from contesting for the offices of President and Governor in Nigeria.
If enacted, this legislation will disqualify prominent political figures such as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, from participating in the 2027 elections, as they all exceed the proposed age limit.
Key Provisions of the Bill
Sponsored by Rep. Ikeagwuonu Ugochinyere, the bill aims to amend Sections 131 and 177 of the 1999 Constitution to:
✅ Set a maximum age of 60 years for presidential and gubernatorial candidates.
✅ Require candidates to hold at least a Bachelor’s degree in their chosen field.
Other Major Bills Passed for Second Reading
In addition to the age limit bill, the House also advanced several other legislative proposals:
- Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education Bill – Upgrades Alvan Ikoku College of Education (Imo State) to a federal university.
- Creation of Ideato West Local Government Area Bill – Proposes a new LGA in Imo State to boost local administration.
- Inclusion of Youths & Persons with Disabilities in Political Appointments Bill – Ensures mandatory representation in government roles.
- Trade & Commerce Concurrent Legislative List Bill – Grants both federal and state governments the power to regulate trade and commerce.
- Reserved Seats for Women in National & State Assemblies Bill – Increases female representation in legislative bodies.
- Judicial Reform Bills:
Timelines for Justice Administration Bill – Seeks to speed up court processes.
Increase in Supreme Court & Court of Appeal Justices Bill – Expands the number of justices for efficiency.
- Creation of New States:
Wan State (North Central) Bill
Gobir State (Northwest) Bill
Impact & Next Steps
- These legislative efforts aim to reshape governance, promote youth and gender inclusion, and enhance economic and judicial reforms. The proposed age cap for political candidates is expected to generate intense debate, particularly among political stakeholders and legal experts.
- The bill now awaits further legislative scrutiny before moving to the Senate and public hearings.
