Hamma Hayatu, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has listed six amendments that should be effected in the Nigerian Constitution.
Hamma’s proposed amendments to the Nigerian Constitution encapsulate several significant changes aimed at restructuring and enhancing the country’s governance.
According to him, the amendment, if carried out, will ensure a more inclusive, transparent, and efficient governance structure in Nigeria.
Here is a breakdown of the suggested amendments:
1. Rotational Presidency:
Hamma suggests introducing a rotational presidency, implying a system where the presidency would rotate among different regions or ethnic groups within Nigeria. This concept aims to ensure equitable representation and distribution of power among diverse segments of the nation.
2. Removal of Immunity:
The call to remove immunity suggests eliminating the legal protection that shields certain elected officials from prosecution while in office. This change would mean that those in public office would be subject to legal action during their tenure, removing the protection from prosecution they currently enjoy.
3. Local Government Autonomy:
This proposal advocates for granting more autonomy to local governments within Nigeria. This move could give them more control over their affairs, such as finances, administration, and decision-making processes, thereby reducing dependency on state governments and allowing for more localized governance.
4. Electronic Voting and Collation:
The suggestion for electronic voting and collation aims to modernize the electoral process in Nigeria. Implementing technology in voting and result collation could improve the efficiency, transparency, and accuracy of the electoral system.
5. Requirement for Winner to Have 50%+1:
This amendment seeks to mandate that for a candidate to win an election, they must secure at least 50%+1 of the votes cast. This requirement aims to ensure that winning candidates have the majority electorate support, thereby enhancing the legitimacy of elected leaders.
6. Unicameral Legislature:
Hamma’s proposal for a unicameral legislature suggests having a single chamber or house in the legislative branch instead of the current bicameral system, which consists of two chambers (Senate and House of Representatives). This change could streamline the legislative process, potentially reducing bureaucracy and costs associated with the current system.
