Former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola has endorsed a movement to transition Nigeria’s government from its current presidential system to a parliamentary model, arguing that a collaborative structure is essential for effectively governing Nigeria’s large and diverse population.
Aregbesola, also a former Minister of Interior, shared his stance during the National Dialogue on a Home-Grown Parliamentary System held in Abuja on Monday.
He also highlighted the limitations of the presidential model in addressing Nigeria’s unique challenges.
According to Aregbesola, the concentration of power in the presidential system places an unrealistic burden on one individual to govern effectively, especially in a nation as populous and complex as Nigeria.
“If you go on believing that an individual, no matter how capable or charismatic, can govern 120 million people alone without substantial checks, we are kidding ourselves,” he said.
He added that the parliamentary system offers a more collective approach to governance, which he believes aligns better with Nigeria’s needs and aspirations for progress.
Aregbesola’s remarks come as the call for a parliamentary system gains traction within Nigeria’s legislative circles.
Earlier this year, a coalition of lawmakers, led by House Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda, introduced a bill seeking to amend the 1999 Constitution to transition Nigeria from the presidential to the parliamentary system.
Titled “The Bills Proposing Constitutional Alterations for a Transition to Parliamentary System of Government,” the proposal reflects concerns over the escalating cost of governance under the presidential system amidst dwindling national revenue.
The bill’s proponents argue that a parliamentary system could streamline government functions, reducing expenditures and fostering greater accountability.
According to Abdussamad Dasuki, a spokesperson for the coalition supporting the bill, the change would address the “glaring imperfections” within the current system that have stifled Nigeria’s potential.
“Today, we stand on the cusp of history as lawmakers across party affiliations and regional backgrounds come together to propose a transition,” Dasuki remarked.
He emphasized that despite multiple constitutional amendments, the presidential system’s structural issues have impeded Nigeria’s progress.
The push for a parliamentary system represents a broader dialogue within Nigeria on how best to structure governance to meet the needs of its citizens.
Supporters of the shift argue that the parliamentary system fosters greater collaboration, accountability, and flexibility, key factors they believe will aid Nigeria in navigating its current economic and social challenges.
By Osondu Nwachukwu @News.NG
