Parliamentary System of Government Best Suited for Nigeria, Says Aregbesola

Former Minister Aregbesola advocates for a parliamentary system in Nigeria, highlighting its potential to foster stability, accountability, and efficient governance. 

A former governor of Osun State, Rauf Aregbesola, has strongly endorsed the movement advocating for Nigeria to abandon its presidential system of governance in favor of a parliamentary system.

He expressed these views during a National Dialogue on Home-Grown Parliamentary System held in Abuja on Monday.

Aregbesola, who previously served as the Minister of Interior, articulated his opposition to the current executive system in Nigeria, asserting that the parliamentary system is more appropriate for the nation.

He stated, “To believe that a single individual, regardless of their capabilities, can effectively govern a population of 120 million without any checks is unrealistic. This alone is why I oppose the executive system of governance. I am convinced that the collective framework provided by the parliamentary system is more suitable for a country like Nigeria, especially if we are genuinely dedicated to promoting the welfare of our vast population.”

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Earlier this year, a contingent of lawmakers in the House of Representatives introduced a bill aimed at amending the 1999 Constitution to facilitate a shift from the current presidential system to a parliamentary system.

This initiative, supported by approximately 60 lawmakers, was deemed essential to mitigate government expenses amid declining revenue. The bill, titled “The Bills Proposing Constitutional Alterations For a Transition To Parliamentary System of Government,” was sponsored by House Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda and 59 other representatives.

The bill was presented during a plenary session in Abuja on February 14, 2024.

A representative for the sponsors of the Parliamentary Bill, Abdussamad Dasuki, remarked, “We find ourselves at a pivotal moment in history, as legislators from various political parties and regions unite to introduce bills aimed at amending the Constitution to facilitate a shift towards a Parliamentary System of Government.”

He further noted that the flaws inherent in the Presidential System of Government have become increasingly evident over the years, despite numerous constitutional amendments intended to rectify the deficiencies of a system that has hindered the nation from realizing its full potential.