Representative Calls For Involvement Of Key Political Figures In Governance Amid Calls For Parliamentary System

Representative Calls For Involvement Of Key Political Figures In Governance Amid Calls For Parliamentary System

Amidst growing discontent with Nigeria’s presidential democracy, Representative Abdusamad Dasuki has called for a return to the parliamentary system, suggesting that prominent figures like President Bola Tinubu, Atiku Abubakar, and Peter Obi should actively participate in governance…..CONTINUE READING

Dasuki, representing Kebbe/Tambuwal Federal Constituency in Sokoto State, expressed concerns about the current state of affairs, describing Nigeria as mired in a “state of quagmire” under the existing system during an interview on Channels Television’s program “Inside Sources with Laolu Akande.”

Critiquing the concentration of power in the presidential system, Dasuki argued that it fosters corruption and inefficiency, advocating for a more pluralistic approach envisioned by the nation’s founding fathers.

This push for a transition to a parliamentary system isn’t new. In February, a group of lawmakers, including Dasuki, reignited discussions with a proposal for constitutional amendments aimed at instituting such a change. The bill, spearheaded by House Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda, has garnered support but has yet to progress beyond its first reading.

Supporters of the bill argue that a parliamentary system could reduce governance costs and enhance accountability, addressing Nigeria’s fiscal challenges amidst declining revenue.

Dasuki envisions a uniquely Nigerian parliamentary system, tailored to the country’s needs. He proposes starting the implementation with local government elections in 2027, suggesting a process where ward councillors elect local government chairmen from among themselves to promote grassroots accountability.

Ahead of the bill’s second reading, proponents have consulted elder statesmen and veterans of the First Republic, garnering support from figures like Ango Abdullahi, Edwin Clark, Segun Osoba, and Bisi Akande.

As the debate continues, the involvement of prominent political figures like Tinubu, Atiku, and Obi could inject valuable perspectives into the discourse, fostering a more inclusive and deliberative approach to governance reform in Nigeria.