Yunusa Tanko, Chief Spokesperson for the Peter Obi/Datti Baba-Ahmed Presidential Campaign Council in 2023, argues that reforming Nigeria’s electoral process is more crucial than adopting a single-tenure rotational presidency. The proposal for a single six-year term for the presidency and state governors, coupled with rotational executive power among Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, is intended to promote equal representation and reduce political tension. Proponents claim it could streamline governance and reduce the waste associated with frequent elections
However, Tanko believes that improving electoral integrity should take precedence. Current proposals for electoral reform aim to ensure all elections (presidential, governorship, legislative, and local) are held on the same day, enhancing efficiency and reducing costs. Other proposed amendments include measures to ensure that election results are accurately declared only after verifying voter accreditation and the integrity of electronic voting devices. Additionally, there are calls for legal accountability for electoral officers who declare false results and for resolving election-related disputes before officials are sworn into office
The debate over single-tenure rotational presidency is divided. Advocates argue it could address issues of exclusion and marginalization, ensuring that each geopolitical zone has a turn at leadership, which could foster national unity and development. Critics, however, warn that a single tenure might lead to increased impunity, as leaders would not be accountable to voters for re-election. They argue that a two-term system incentivizes better performance and accountability
while the idea of a single-tenure rotational presidency aims to address regional inequalities and streamline governance, electoral reform focused on enhancing transparency, accountability, and efficiency is seen by many, including Tanko, as a more immediate and necessary step for deepening Nigeria’s democracy.
