The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has condemned the law calling for a single six-year term for the President and state governors, branding it as “anti-democracy and an attempt to stifle people’s choice.
It should be noted that 35 members of the House of Representatives, under the auspices of Reformed Legislators, filed a bill last week proposing a single six-year term for the President and state governors.
The law makers are also advocating for the rotation of the presidency among the country’s six geopolitical zones, claiming that if executed, the proposal will reduce the cost of governance.
However, in response to the bill, NANS called on Nigerians, pro-democracy groups, organised labour, and trade unions to mobilise against it.
Addressing reporters in Abeokuta, Ogun State, the National Clerk of the Senate of NANS, Yekini Adewale, branded the bill as “a smokescreen” designed to divert Nigerians’ attention away from the current economic sufferings and agonies that the country is experiencing.
According to Adewale, if the bill becomes law, it will undermine political leaders’ accountability, probity, transparency, and responsibility.
What they’re saying
“It is true that democracy depends on cooperation between the three arms of government, but it is depressing and should not be allowed when a crucial branch, like the legislature, puts forward legislation or even passes laws that restrict people’s freedom of choice or sabotage democratic ideals.
“NANS, as a non-governmental organisation and the only pressure group fighting to keep our hard-earned democracy from being shattered, not only condemns the proposed bills, but also calls on Nigerians must resist such actions taken by some dishonest politicians in an effort to further their own self-serving agenda.”The passage of the proposed legislation would constitute a serious threat to our democracy.
Any president or governor who understands he cannot pursue a second term in office may prefer to spend his time feathering his personal nest rather than providing effective administration to the public.
“Removing the second term from our constitution means that the electorate will no longer be able to vote out any non-performing president or governor.
“As a student body in the country, we will mobilise our members massively against these proposals that seek to remove accountability, probity, transparency, and responsibility from elected leaders and politicians.
“A day will be designated for Nigerian students to march in large numbers against the National Assembly as an additional way of expressing our opposition to these legislation that are anti-people, anti-democracy, and anti-progress.” , Adewale stated.
Why this matters
The law that would limit the terms of governors and the president to one six-year term is strongly opposed by the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS).They view it as undemocratic and a curb on Nigerians’ ability to choose their leaders.
Here’s a breakdown of their arguments:
- Reduced Accountability: With only one term, leaders might prioritize personal gain over public service.
- Limited Choice: Voters lose the power to vote out underperforming leaders.
- Distraction Tactic: NANS suggests the bill aims to divert attention from pressing economic issues.
