In a significant move, the Nigerian House of Representatives has passed a bill for second reading that seeks to impose a 60-year age limit on presidential and gubernatorial candidates.
The bill, titled “A Bill for an Act to alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999,” aims to review the requirements for election to the offices of President, Vice President, Governors, and Deputy Governors.
If the bill becomes law, several prominent politicians, including President Bola Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, would be ineligible to contest in the 2027 presidential election due to their age.
The bill, sponsored by Imo lawmaker Ikenga Ugochinyere, also proposes that candidates must have a minimum university education and a Bachelor’s degree in their chosen field.
Other bills passed for second reading include proposals to establish new universities, promote inclusivity and representation in governance, and enhance the justice delivery system in the country.
The passage of the bill is seen as a significant step towards promoting youth participation in politics and addressing the concerns of marginalized groups in Nigeria.
However, it remains to be seen whether the bill will sail through the remaining legislative processes and become law.
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