Reps reject bill for rotational presidency among geopolitical zones
By Ahiaba Douglas
A bill proposing the institutionalisation of a rotationalpresidency across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones was struck down on Tuesday by members of the House of Representatives, following a tense debate on the chamber floor.
The bill, introduced by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Okezie Kalu, sought to amend the 1999 Constitution to mandate rotation of the offices of President and Vice President among the North Central, North West, North East, South West, South East, and South South zones. It was listed as one of seven constitutional amendment bills scheduled for second reading on the House Order Paper for 13 May 2025.
Formally titled “A Bill for an Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Cap. C23, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2024, to Provide for the Principle of Rotation of the Offices of the President and Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria Among the Six Geopolitical Zones of the Country—and for Related Matters (HB. 2291),” the proposal quickly drew a mix of support and criticism from lawmakers.
Once the House Leader read out the title, Deputy Speaker Kalu, who was presiding over the session, opened the floor for contributions.
Rep. Aliyu Madaki (NNPP, Kano) led opposition to the bill, asserting that Nigeria’s current constitutional provision for federal character already addresses equitable representation. He contended that decisions around zoning should remain within the domain of political parties and the electorate, rather than be enshrined in the Constitution.
In contrast, Rep. Ali Isa (PDP, Gombe) argued in favour of the bill, maintaining that a constitutionally backed rotational presidency would foster a greater sense of inclusion and fairness among Nigeria’s diverse regions.
Rep. Sada Soli (APC, Katsina) also opposed the proposal, warning that such a constitutional change might undermine national cohesion and elevate regional loyalty above merit.
“It could elevate ethnic and regional considerations over competence. This would restrict the field of potential candidates and deepen divisions, contradicting efforts to strengthen national unity,” Soli said.
Deputy Speaker Kalu responded to these concerns by arguing that every zone in the country has qualified individuals capable of leading. He explained that the bill was intended to guarantee equitable access to the highest offices and broaden participation in governance.
However, Rep. Shina Peller (APC, Oyo) expressed concern that constitutionally mandating zoning would erode the foundations of democracy.
“Codifying regional and zonal preferences into law weakens the democratic ideal that any Nigerian can aspire to lead, based on merit and support,” Peller remarked.
Rep. Bello El-Rufai (APC, Kaduna) issued a further caution, warning that embedding such provisions in the Constitution could exacerbate ethnic and regional divisions in a country already grappling with complex identity politics.
Following an impassioned back-and-forth, the Deputy Speaker put the bill to a voice vote. A majority of lawmakers responded with “nays,” and the bill was ultimately rejected.
