The Nigerian House of Representatives on Thursday, March 27, passed for second reading a bill that seeks to bar individuals above 60 from contesting for the offices of President and Governor.
Sponsored by Rep. Ike Ugochinyere, the bill proposes amendments to the 1999 Constitution to revise eligibility criteria for these key political positions. If enacted, it would prevent politicians like Peter Obi, Atiku Abubakar, and President Bola Tinubu from running for president in future elections.
The bill specifically amends Section 131 to set an upper age limit for presidential candidates and Section 177 to impose the same restriction on gubernatorial aspirants. It also mandates that candidates hold at least a Bachelor’s degree.
Beyond the age limit proposal, the House also advanced several other bills, including one to upgrade Alvan Ikoku College of Education in Imo State to a federal university. This bill, sponsored by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas and Rep. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere, aims to elevate the institution’s academic standing.