Parliamentary vs. Presidential System: Nigeria’s Governance Debate

Lawyers and political activists have vehemently opposed the recent proposal by 60 Members of the House of Representatives to switch Nigeria’s governance system from a Presidential to a Parliamentary model. They argue that Nigeria needs a new constitution and a complete restructuring rather than piecemeal changes. Critics view the lawmakers’ move as mere political posturing, lacking genuine intent for meaningful change.

Supporters of the proposal believe that a Parliamentary system would reduce the cost of governance, but detractors like Iniruo Wills of the Embassara Foundation argue that Nigeria requires a more comprehensive approach to constitutional reform. Wills insists that the country needs a new, people-driven constitution to replace the current one, which he describes as “plastic” and lacking in legitimacy.

Eric Omare, former president of the Ijaw Youth Council, echoes Wills’ sentiments, stating that while the idea of reducing the cost of governance is commendable, the current political climate in Nigeria makes it unlikely that the proposal will succeed. Omare emphasizes the need for genuine political will to enact meaningful change.

Fyneface Dumnamene Fyneface, a political analyst from Rivers State, raises concerns about the suitability of a Parliamentary system for Nigeria’s diverse population. He warns that the system could lead to more aggressive and divisive politics, citing historical precedents that led to the abandonment of the Parliamentary system in favor of the current Presidential system.

Saviour Akpan of the COMPPART Foundation for Justice and Peace Building in Akwa Ibom State questions the efficacy of changing the governance system without addressing deeper issues such as respect for the rule of law and fundamental freedoms. He argues that Nigeria’s problems stem from a lack of leadership integrity rather than the specific system of governance in place.

Zik Gbemre, coordinator of the Niger Delta Peace Coalition, sees the proposal as a potential solution to the high cost of governance in Nigeria. He believes that adopting a Parliamentary system similar to that of the United Kingdom would lead to a more efficient and cost-effective government.

Blessing Adima, a political activist from Delta State, dismisses the debate as insincere, calling for a focus on true federalism and restructuring instead. Adima believes that the current system of governance in Nigeria is fundamentally flawed, and changing to a Parliamentary system without addressing underlying issues will not lead to meaningful change.

However, not everyone is convinced that a switch to a Parliamentary system is the answer. Odion Akhaine, a Professor of Political Science at Lagos State University, urges caution, suggesting that any change in the governance structure should be carefully considered. He acknowledges the advantages of a Parliamentary system but warns against expecting it to solve all of Nigeria’s problems.

Vanguard News