To move from the current presidential style of administration to a parliamentary one, about 60 members of the Federal House of Representatives are presently attempting to modify the 1999 Constitution.
Leading the charge for a return to the parliamentary system was Wale Raji, an All Progressives Congress legislator representing Lagos State. Among other reasons, the Reps cited the need to lower government expenses and have vigorous policy discussions.
The group, known as the Parliamentary Group, introduced a constitution alteration bill on the floor of the House of Representatives on Wednesday, setting in motion what could be a transition to a parliamentary system by 2031.
Nonetheless, Abdulsamad Dasuki, the group’s spokesman, gave journalists a briefing on the bills’ synopses.
The Reps voiced their displeasure with the costly presidential system and the president’s omnipotent powers during a press conference at the House Press Center.
“No wonder the Nigerian President appears to be one of the most powerful Presidents in the world,” Mr Dasuki said.
“Over the years, the imperfections of the Presidential System of Government have become glaring to all, despite several alterations to the constitution to address the shortcomings of a system that has denied the nation the opportunity to attain its full potential.
“Among these imperfections are the high cost of governance, leaving fewer resources for crucial areas like infrastructure, education, and healthcare, and consequently hindering the nation’s development progress, and the excessive powers vested in the members of the executive, who are appointees and not directly accountable to the people,” he said.
The group wants to start a discussion about how ineffective the existing presidential system is, according to Mr. Dasuki.
“The bills presented today seek a return to the system of government adopted by our founders, which made governance accountable, responsible, and responsive, and ultimately less expensive,” he said.