Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has proposed a significant alteration to Nigeria’s political landscape, advocating for a single term of five or six years for all elected officials at every level of government. This proposition challenges the current system, which allows for two terms of four years each. Makinde argues that a single, longer term would allow elected officials to concentrate on governance and fulfilling their campaign promises without the distraction of re-election campaigns. He believes that the current system loses valuable time to campaigning, citing his own experience where nearly a year of his first term was dedicated to securing a second term. This, coupled with the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, has led him to conclude that only about five years of an eight-year tenure are truly dedicated to effective governance.
Makinde’s rationale centers on the idea of enhanced focus and efficiency. He contends that a single term eliminates the political maneuvering and distractions inherent in seeking re-election. Free from the pressures of campaigning and fundraising, elected officials can dedicate their full attention to the needs of their constituents and the implementation of their policies. He posits that this focused approach would lead to greater productivity and tangible results within a shorter timeframe. This stance, he insists, is not self-serving but rather driven by the need to optimize governance and maximize the impact of elected officials. He believes this model, free from the constant pressure of re-election bids, would allow for more courageous and impactful decision-making, ultimately benefiting the citizens they serve.
The governor’s proposal requires a constitutional amendment, a process he acknowledges has already been brought to the attention of the National Assembly. He urges Nigerians to engage in a broader discussion about this potential shift in the country’s political system, emphasizing the need for data-driven analysis to determine the most effective model for Nigeria’s unique context. While recognizing that changing the constitution is a complex and multifaceted endeavor, he believes the potential benefits of improved governance and increased accountability warrant serious consideration. The call for a national dialogue underscores Makinde’s belief that this is not merely a personal preference but a matter of national importance with the potential to significantly improve the quality of governance in Nigeria.
Makinde’s call for a single term resonates with concerns about the effectiveness and focus of elected officials, particularly in a country grappling with numerous challenges. He argues that the current system incentivizes short-term thinking and prioritizes political survival over long-term planning and sustainable development. A single, longer term, he proposes, would incentivize a more strategic and long-term approach to governance. By removing the immediate pressure of re-election, officials could focus on enacting policies with lasting impact, even if those policies are politically unpopular in the short-term. This change, according to Makinde, would foster a more responsible and accountable political culture.
The governor shared his proposal during a gathering of Muslim faithful, traditional rulers, and political office holders at his private residence in Ibadan following Eid-el-Kabir prayers. The setting, a celebration of faith and community, underscores the importance Makinde places on this issue. He used the opportunity to raise this significant political issue within a social and cultural context, highlighting the interconnectedness of governance and community well-being. The presence of influential figures such as the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, and other prominent political figures suggests the potential for this proposal to gain traction within the political and traditional leadership circles.
The reaction from those present, particularly Oba Ladoja speaking on behalf of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, emphasized support for the government and offered prayers for the success of Makinde’s administration. While this doesn’t necessarily signal an endorsement of the single-term proposal, it does indicate a receptive audience to Makinde’s broader concerns about effective governance. The event, therefore, served as a platform for Makinde to initiate a dialogue on a critical issue of national importance within a diverse and influential gathering. The response, while not explicitly focused on the single-term proposal, nevertheless suggests a willingness to engage with Makinde’s ideas and concerns about effective governance.
