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Published on 2024-02-14 20:41:58
60 members of the house of representatives have proposed a bill seeking the transformation to a parliamentary system of government from the current presidential system in Nigeria. This bill is presented for first reading in the legislative chamber, setting in motion what could be a transition to a parliamentary system by 2031.
These lawmakers have expressed frustration with the presidential system’s alleged high cost and “the overbearing powers” of the president. Led by a lawmaker representing Lagos state under the All Progressives Congress (APC), Wale Raji, the lawmakers identified the need for reducing the cost of government and robust policy debates among other reasons for demanding a return to the parliamentary system.
A parliamentary system is a democratic form of government in which the party (or a coalition of parties) with the greatest representation in the parliament forms the government. Its leader is the prime minister or chancellor. Executive functions are exercised by members of the parliament appointed by the prime minister to the cabinet. The parties in the minority serve in opposition to the majority and have the duty to challenge it regularly.
Prime ministers may be removed from power whenever they lose the confidence of a majority of the ruling party or of the parliament. The parliamentary system originated in Britain and was adopted in several of its former colonies. In 2018, 71 Nigerian lawmakers had also demanded a return to the parliamentary system of government citing the need to achieve economic growth and development in the country. The lawmakers said the parliamentary system helps in the quick passage of economic bills due to the fusion of power that it embodies.
Nigeria previously practiced the British-styled “Westminster” parliamentary system until the collapse of the First Republic on January 15, 1966, when the military took power. The 1979 constitution introduced the country to the US-styled presidential system of government, with the framers of the constitution largely citing the tensions and acrimonious politics of the First Republic as reasons for the adoption of a new system.
This move by the 60 lawmakers reflects growing calls for a change in the country’s system of government. The bill and the lawmakers’ stance have been reported by various news sources and are subject to national discussions. The proposal to shift to a parliamentary system is seen as a means of addressing the high cost and alleged overbearing powers of the current presidential system, which some believe hinders efficient governance and policymaking.
The bill presents a potential path for Nigeria to revert to a parliamentary system of government similar to the one implemented in the country’s first republic. Ultimately, the decision will be a significant point in the country’s history and will shape its political landscape for years to come. The move has the potential to fundamentally alter the dynamics of policymaking, governance, and political representation, leading to a potential reduction in the cost of governance and more efficient policy debates and decision-making processes. It is a development worth watching as Nigeria navigates a possible transition to a different system of government.
Read the original article on Legit.ng
