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The House of Representatives has rejected a bill proposing the rotation of the presidency among Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, sponsored by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu.
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Lawmakers also voted down several other bills, including one to strip INEC of powers to register political parties and another to create new government office.
The House of Representatives on Tuesday rejected a bill proposing the rotation of the presidency among Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, dashing hopes for institutionalized power-sharing intended to strengthen national unity.
The bill, championed by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, received pushback during plenary, despite his strong argument that the proposal would “promote inclusivity” and allow every region to contribute to national leadership.
“There is no region that does not have capable people who can lead,” Kalu said. “It would increase national cohesion and national unity. What is good for the goose is also good for the gander.”
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Some lawmakers backed the bill. Clement Jimbo (Akwa Ibom) called it a remedy for “age-long injustice,” and Minority Whip Ali Isa said it would promote fairness. But others, like Sani Madaki (NNPP), opposed it, insisting zoning should remain a party affair. Mohammed el-Rufai warned the bill could infringe on Nigerians’ constitutional rights to contest for the presidency.
In the end, the bill was rejected via voice vote, along with others not debated. However, a motion for reconsideration may be raised following a point of order by Rep. Francis Waive.
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