In a bold move to transform Nigeria's political landscape, experts are rallying behind a proposal for constitutional amendments that would establish a single seven-year term for all elected public office holders.
Academic Leader Champions Political Reform
Professor Adewunmi Falode, a distinguished scholar of International Relations and Strategic Studies at Lagos State University, has emerged as the latest voice calling for significant changes to Nigeria's tenure structure. During the university's 115th inaugural lecture held at the Buba Marwa Auditorium, Falode presented compelling arguments for political restructuring.
The academic delivered his groundbreaking lecture titled "Bespoke Solutions: Reimagining, Reifying and Realigning the Wheels of the Nigerian State," emphasizing that Nigeria cannot afford to delay addressing its longstanding political tenure challenges any longer.
Growing Coalition for Single-Term Structure
Professor Falode's position aligns with earlier calls from prominent Nigerian figures who have advocated for similar political reforms. The growing movement includes:
- Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State
- Former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi
- Renowned economist Pat Utomi
- Former Nigerian Bar Association President Wole Olanipekun (SAN)
- Former Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu
These influential personalities have previously supported single-term structures ranging from five to six years, creating a solid foundation for the current seven-year proposal.
Practical Benefits of Seven-Year Tenure
According to Professor Falode's detailed analysis, the proposed seven-year single tenure would provide elected officials with at least four solid years dedicated purely to governance and development initiatives. The remaining three years would accommodate electioneering activities and the resolution of post-election disputes through legal channels.
The international relations expert highlighted the inefficiency and excessive costs associated with Nigeria's current democratic cycle. "Democracy has always been expensive in Nigeria," Falode stated, providing historical context by revealing that the 1983 federal elections alone consumed N2 billion before the military intervention truncated the democratic process.
This substantial financial burden, combined with the political instability caused by frequent election cycles, underscores the urgent need for constitutional reform that would create a more stable and cost-effective governance system for Africa's most populous nation.
