The House of Representatives has advanced a bill that seeks to prevent individuals older than 60 from contesting elections for the offices of president and governor. The proposed law, sponsored by Hon. Ikeagwuonu Ugochinyere from Imo State, passed its second reading on the floor of the House on Thursday.
The bill aims to amend the Nigerian Constitution by adding an age limit for those aspiring to lead the country or any of its states. According to the bill, a person must not be older than 60 at the time of contesting for president or governor. Additionally, it mandates that candidates for these positions must hold at least a bachelor’s degree.
Explaining the bill, Ugochinyere emphasized that the proposal would help ensure younger and well-educated leaders take charge of the country’s affairs.
He said, “The bill states that a person shall be qualified for election as president if he has been educated up to at least university level and has earned a bachelor’s degree in his chosen field of study. Additionally, Section 131 of the principal Act is amended to include that he must not be more than 60 years at the time of contesting.”
Similarly, the bill proposes that the same age and educational requirements should apply to those seeking governorship positions.
The House also approved several other important bills during the session, including a constitutional amendment bill to establish the Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education in Imo State. The bill, sponsored by Speaker Tajudeen Abass and Ugochinyere, seeks to grant the institution federal recognition and support.
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In another move to improve governance, the House passed a bill that would create an additional local government area in Imo State. If fully enacted, the bill will establish Ideato West Local Government Area, a move lawmakers say will enhance development and administrative efficiency.
Another bill, also sponsored by Ugochinyere, aims to make it mandatory for youths and persons with disabilities to be included in political appointments. The lawmaker argued that inclusive governance is essential for national progress.
He said, “This bill will ensure that young people and persons living with disabilities are given a voice in leadership. It is a step towards fair representation in government.”
Additionally, the House passed a bill seeking to move trade and commerce to the concurrent legislative list, which would allow both federal and state governments to regulate trade. Ugochinyere, who sponsored the bill, said it would help stimulate economic activity across different states.
The House also considered another bill to review the requirements for qualification to contest for the offices of president, vice president, governor, and deputy governor. Ugochinyere explained that the bill is aimed at streamlining the leadership selection process to ensure competent individuals hold top government positions.