The Nigerian House of Representatives has passed for second reading a bill seeking to bar individuals above 60 years from contesting for the offices of President and Governor.
If passed into law, the bill could disqualify major political figures such as President Bola Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and Peter Obi from contesting in the 2027 presidential election, as all three exceed the proposed age limit.
Key Provisions of the Bill
The bill, titled “A Bill for an Act to amend the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, to revise the eligibility criteria for individuals seeking election as President, Vice President, Governors, and Deputy Governors in Nigeria,” was introduced by Rep. Ikenga Ugochinyere (PDP, Imo).
Proposed amendments include:
1. Educational Qualification:
A candidate for President or Governor must possess at least a university degree (Bachelor’s).
2. Age Limit:
President: Must not be more than 60 years at the time of election.
Governor: Must not be more than 60 years at the time of election.
The bill was among 31 legislative proposals that passed second reading during Thursday’s plenary session.
Other Key Bills Passed for Second Reading
1. Federal University Bills
Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education Bill (Imo State) – Sponsored by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas and Rep. Ugochinyere, seeking federal recognition and funding for the institution.
Federal University of Education, Zaria Bill – Co-sponsored by Speaker Abbas and Rep. Yusuf Gagdi to establish a teacher-training university in Zaria.
Yusuf Maitama Sule Federal University of Education Bill (Kano) and University of Nigerian Languages Bill (Aba) also scaled second reading.
2. Political Inclusion and Representation
Inclusion of Youths & Persons with Disabilities in Political Appointments Bill – Sponsored by Rep. Ugochinyere, seeking to mandate youth and disability representation in political appointments.
Reserved Seats for Women in National and State Assemblies Bill – Sponsored by Rep. Kafilat Ogbara, aimed at enhancing gender inclusivity in legislative representation.
3. Electoral and Economic Reforms
Trade and Commerce Bill – Seeks to move trade regulation to the concurrent legislative list, allowing both federal and state governments to regulate interstate commerce.
Judicial Reform Bills:
Timelines for Justice Administration Bill – Sponsored by Rep. Benjamin Kalu, aimed at improving efficiency in justice delivery.
Increase in Number of Supreme Court & Court of Appeal Justices Bill – Sponsored by Rep. Bello Kaoje, proposing an increase in the number of justices to speed up case resolutions.
4. State Creation Bills
Creation of Wan State (North Central) Bill
Creation of Gobir State (North West) Bill
Next Steps
The 60-year age limit bill and other proposed legislations will undergo further scrutiny in committee stages before being considered for final passage.
If enacted, the age limit amendment would mark a significant shift in Nigeria’s electoral landscape, potentially reshaping presidential and gubernatorial contests ahead of 2027.
