NASS Proposes 4-Year Tenure for LG Chairmen, 25-Year Age Limit

NASS Proposes 4-Year Tenure for LG Chairmen, 25-Year Age Limit 

The National Assembly (NASS) is proposing a significant change to the country's constitution, suggesting a uniform four-year tenure for elected local government officials across Nigeria. This move aims to standardize the tenure of local government chairmen, which currently varies from two to three years depending on the state.

According to the proposal, a minimum age of 25 is required for those contesting local government chairmanship elections. Additionally, candidates must have at least a school certificate level or its equivalent, be a member of a political party, and be sponsored by that party.

The proposed amendment to Section 212 of the constitution also outlines procedures for removing elected local government chairmen and vice chairmen, effectively stripping state governors of the power to dissolve elected councils. This move is part of a broader effort to promote local government autonomy and reform.

The proposal is currently awaiting consideration by both chambers of the National Assembly, following a joint retreat of the Senate and House of Representatives Committees on Constitutional Review.