A groundbreaking constitutional amendment is making waves in Nigeria’s political landscape as the House of Representatives advances a bill that could permanently sideline older political heavyweights from contesting for key leadership positions.
The bill, introduced by Rep. Ikeagwuonu Ugochinyere, seeks to amend the 1999 Constitution by imposing a maximum age limit of 60 years for presidential and gubernatorial candidates.
YOUTH OVER EXPERIENCE? THE PROPOSED AMENDMENTS
If passed, the bill would:
Amend Section 131 of the Constitution to prohibit anyone above 60 years from contesting for President.
Amend Section 177 to apply the same restriction to Governorship candidates.
Mandate that all candidates must hold at least a Bachelor’s degree.
This move signals a bold attempt to inject younger leadership into Nigerian politics, but it also raises serious questions about political exclusion, age discrimination, and the future of Nigeria’s democracy.
WHO WOULD BE AFFECTED? POLITICAL GIANTS IN JEOPARDY
If this bill becomes law, it would automatically disqualify some of Nigeria’s most prominent political figures, including:
Atiku Abubakar (78 years old), a long-time presidential hopeful.
Peter Obi (68 years old), another major contender in recent elections.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who is reportedly 72 years old.
WILL THE PRESIDENT SIGN IT INTO LAW?
While the bill has passed its second reading, its fate remains uncertain. Will lawmakers push it through? Will President Tinubu—who would be personally affected by such a law—sign it into effect?
As Nigeria watches closely, this controversial bill could reshape the nation’s political landscape forever—either by ushering in a new era of youthful leadership or sparking fierce opposition from the country’s aging political elite.
