Senator Kenneth Eze, representing Ebonyi State under the All Progressives Congress (APC), has called for a national debate on a bold constitutional reform: replacing Nigeria’s current two-term, four-year presidential system with a single, uninterrupted 16-year tenure.
The lawmaker argued that this change could help improve policy continuity, strengthen governance, and enhance long-term national development.
Addressing journalists at his country home in Ohigbo-Amagu, Ezza South Local Government Area, Senator Eze, who is also chairman of the Senate Committee on Information and National Orientation, explained that Nigeria’s frequent electoral cycles often distract leaders from focusing on meaningful governance.
According to him, by the third year of any administration, political attention shifts to re-election campaigns, slowing the pace of governance and hindering the completion of critical projects.
“Every four years, leaders quickly move from implementing policies to campaigning for re-election. This cycle results in abandoned projects and incomplete reforms,” he stated.
“Nigeria’s constitution currently allows a four-year presidential term, renewable once, but I advocate for a single 16-year tenure.
While this may seem controversial, it provides the stability needed for policies to mature and produce tangible results.”
Senator Eze emphasised that the proposed 16-year tenure would free political leaders from the constant pressure of elections.
By eliminating the need to focus on short-term electoral gains, leaders would have the time and space to pursue long-term reforms that could benefit the nation for decades.
In his view, this approach would allow the government to take bold, strategic decisions without fear of immediate political backlash.
The senator highlighted key sectors where sustained leadership is particularly critical.
He pointed out that infrastructure, power generation, agriculture, and fiscal reforms often require more than a single four-year term to achieve meaningful outcomes.
“Programs such as irrigation schemes, mechanised farming initiatives, and energy reforms demand continuity.
“When administrations change frequently, these programs lose momentum, and the intended benefits never fully reach the people,” Eze said.
Referencing recent economic reforms, including the controversial removal of the fuel subsidy, Senator Eze explained that such tough decisions are necessary to maintain fiscal stability.
“We were borrowing to pay salaries, which is unsustainable. Difficult choices are sometimes unavoidable if we want long-term economic stability.
“A 16-year tenure would provide leaders the mandate to implement reforms without interruption,” he said.
Despite advocating for a 16-year tenure, Senator Eze was careful to frame his proposal as a discussion about governance, not an attack on democracy.
He stressed that any constitutional amendment would require thorough consultation and adherence to democratic principles, including approval by the National Assembly and ratification by a majority of state legislatures.
Transparency, public participation, and civic engagement, he noted, would be essential throughout the process.
“The idea is not to concentrate power or weaken democracy, but to ensure policies have time to succeed,” Eze emphasised.
“We must have an open national conversation on whether a 16-year tenure can improve implementation of critical programs while maintaining checks and balances.”
Beyond tenure reform, Senator Eze urged citizens to embrace their civic responsibilities. He challenged journalists, teachers, civil servants, and parents to actively promote national values and patriotism.
“Policy alone cannot transform a nation. Citizens must uphold integrity, accountability, and unity. These values are as critical as any constitutional reform for sustainable progress,” he said.
Political analysts note that the proposal for a 16-year tenure is likely to spark robust debate.
Supporters argue that long-term stability is necessary to attract investment, complete infrastructure projects, and implement comprehensive reforms.
Critics, however, may view such an extended tenure as a potential risk to democratic accountability.
Senator Eze countered these concerns by reiterating that any reform would be fully constitutional and participatory, and not a means to entrench power.
He concluded by emphasising that the conversation on a 16-year tenure is part of a broader national effort to rethink governance structures in Nigeria.
According to him, bold ideas should be debated openly to ensure that the country’s development challenges are addressed in a way that is inclusive, transparent, and forward-looking.
“The proposal for a 16-year tenure is not a personal agenda; it is a governance conversation.
“Nigeria cannot achieve long-term stability if policies are constantly interrupted by electoral politics. Let us discuss it openly and responsibly,” he said.
By placing national interest above short-term politics, Senator Eze argued, Nigeria can create an environment where leaders focus on sustainable development, reform implementation, and institutional stability.
With citizens, political stakeholders, and civil society engaged in the debate, he believes the nation can weigh the benefits and potential risks of a 16-year tenure, ultimately strengthening democratic governance while promoting progress.
Ireport247news
