Nigeria’s Age Limit Bill: A Step Toward Youth Inclusion or Political Discrimination?

Introduction: A New Era for Nigerian Politics?

A proposed bill currently under review in the Nigerian House of Representatives aims to disqualify individuals above 60 from contesting for the offices of President and State Governor. Sponsored by Imo lawmaker, Ikenga Ugochinyere, the bill has triggered nationwide debates on youth inclusion and political discrimination.

According to a report from Premium Times Nigeria, the bill successfully passed its second reading at the lower legislative chamber on Thursday, setting the stage for a rigorous legislative process.

Key Provisions of the Age Limit Bill

The proposed amendment to the 1999 Nigerian Constitution includes the following provisions:

• A presidential or gubernatorial candidate must hold at least a university degree.
• Candidates for President and Governor must be 60 years old or younger at the time of election.
• The National Assembly and State Houses of Assembly will oversee implementation and compliance.

These provisions, if enacted, will disqualify key political figures such as President Bola Tinubu, Atiku Abubakar, and Peter Obi, all of whom are over 60.

Youth Reaction: A Shift in Political Power?

The bill has found strong support among Nigerian youths who feel marginalized. The Not-Too-Young-To-Run Act, signed into law by former President Muhammadu Buhari in 2018, initially lowered the age requirement for several key positions but failed to shift the power dynamics in favor of younger leaders.

As reported by The Guardian Nigeria, many young Nigerians believe this new bill could further increase their chances of political participation.

Opposition to the Bill

Nigeria Needs Electoral Reforms, Not Age Limits – Osita Okechukwu

Former Director-General of Voice of Nigeria (VON) and APC founding member, Osita Okechukwu, argues that the bill focuses on the wrong issue. In an interview with Vanguard Nigeria, he stated:

“Age is a non-issue. The real problem is the flawed electoral system that allows corruption and lack of accountability to thrive.”

He advocates for implementing the 2008 Uwais Electoral Reform Report, which recommends an independent selection process for INEC and SIEC executives.

‘Ageism’ Has No Place in Law – Omoyele Sowore

Omoyele Sowore, former AAC presidential candidate, has outrightly rejected the bill, calling it discriminatory. Speaking to Daily Post Nigeria, he remarked:

“This proposal is just a distraction. Any law that discriminates based on age is unconstitutional.”

He also linked the bill’s timing to ongoing political controversies, such as the Rivers State bribery scandal.

Can Nigeria’s Youth Rescue the Nation?

“Only Young Leaders Can Save Nigeria” – Labour Party’s Terzulum Ukpanya

Terzulum Ukpanya, a former Labour Party House of Representatives candidate, believes the bill is necessary. In an interview with The Nation, he criticized older politicians for prioritizing personal wealth over national development.

“They steal government funds for personal gain while the country remains underdeveloped.”

Ukpanya cited the example of French President Emmanuel Macron, who assumed office at 39, as a model for young leadership.

Will the Bill Pass? Legal and Political Hurdles

While the bill has sparked intense debate, Nairametrics suggests that it faces significant hurdles:

• The Nigerian Senate, dominated by older politicians, may reject it.
• The President, if affected by the age restriction, may refuse to sign it into law.
• Legal challenges could arise, arguing that the bill violates constitutional rights.

Conclusion: What’s Next for Nigeria’s Leadership?

The proposed Age Limit Bill represents a bold attempt to reshape Nigerian leadership, but its feasibility remains uncertain. Will Nigeria’s younger generation finally get their chance, or will this bill be struck down?

Join the Conversation!

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