The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP), and the Social Democratic Party (SDP) have voiced strong opposition to the House of Representatives’ recent proposal to impose age limits on candidates for the offices of President and Governor in Nigeria.
A bill passed its second reading on Thursday, aiming to restrict individuals over the age of 60 from contesting for these significant roles. Should it advance and become law, it would eliminate prominent candidates like President Bola Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and Peter Obi, who are all above the specified age limit, from the 2027 presidential race.
The PDP labeled this legislative move as “a misplaced priority,” criticizing lawmakers for prioritizing such measures over pressing national issues. They argue that Nigeria’s critical governance challenges stem from corruption, incompetence, and a lack of patriotism, rather than age.
In contrast, the SDP acknowledged that while age can influence governance, it should not be the sole determining factor for leadership capabilities. The proposed bill, titled ‘A Bill for an Act to alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to review the requirements that qualify a person to be elected as President and Vice President…,’ was sponsored by Ikenga Ugochinyere, representing Ideato North/Ideato South Federal Constituency of Imo State. The bill stipulates that candidates must possess at least a Bachelor’s degree and cannot be over 60 years old at the time of seeking office.
PDP Deputy National Youth Leader Timothy Osadolor condemned this move, characterizing the current lawmakers as “the most irresponsible in Nigeria’s history.” He emphasized that the nation’s issues are rooted in incompetence and corruption rather than age, asserting that successful leaders exist across a range of ages globally.
Mark Adebayo, National Publicity Secretary of CUPP, echoed this sentiment, insisting that leadership quality transcends age. He pointed out that whether leaders are in their thirties or sixties, without the right values, they will likely fail. Adebayo cited examples like Joe Biden and Singapore’s Lee Kuan Yew, highlighting that strong leadership is about competence and character, not age.
Additionally, SDP’s National Publicity Secretary Rufus Aiyenigba recognized the role of youth in governance but stressed that effective leadership requires experience and values. He proposed the implementation of mandatory live debates for presidential candidates to better assess their capabilities and potential for effective governance.
Aiyenigba also noted the importance of balancing youthfulness and experience, asserting that governance requires individuals prepared for the demands of leadership.
The ongoing debate over age limits in Nigerian politics underscores broader discussions on the qualifications and competencies necessary for effective governance as the country approaches future elections.
