Reps Deny Bill Requiring First Degree For Election Candidacy

The House of Representatives on Tuesday deferred consideration on a bill proposing an increase in the educational qualification necessary for certain elective positions in Nigeria to a university degree or its equivalent. This initiative which was proposed by Deputy Whip Hon. Omowunmi Onanuga, was deferred following extensive debate regarding its advantages and drawbacks.

Titled “A Bill for an Act to Alter the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) to change the Educational Qualification for Elections into Certain Political Offices and for Related Matters,” the legislation was shelved with the House’s consent after much scrutiny.

During the discussion on the bill’s general principles, Onanuga underscored the importance of educational qualifications for political officeholders. She emphasized the strategic significance of roles such as state legislators, governors, federal legislators, and the president, advocating for a prerequisite of a university degree or its equivalent.

Contributing to the debate, Hon. Babajimi Benson expressed astonishment at the notion of aspiring to higher political offices without pursuing education beyond secondary school. He challenged opponents of the bill to justify their stance, questioning whether they advocate for educational advancement for their own children.

House Leader Hon. (Prof.) Julius Ihonvbare echoed sentiments favoring heightened qualifications for political roles in the modern era, emphasizing knowledge as a crucial asset. However, he suggested exempting local government positions from this requirement.

In contrast, Minority Whip Aliyu Madaki argued that leadership qualities surpass educational credentials, advocating for inclusivity in political participation. He cautioned against imposing restrictions based on educational background, emphasizing commitment to service as the paramount criterion.

Echoing similar sentiments, Hon. Bashir Usman Gorau and Hon. Ahmed Jaha cautioned against imposing stringent educational requirements that could disenfranchise less-privileged citizens. They stressed the importance of ensuring broad access to political participation regardless of academic qualifications.

Chief Whip Hon. Usman Bello Kumo underscored the need to uphold democratic principles of popular participation, advocating for the retention of the current constitutional provision requiring a school certificate or its equivalent for political officeholders.

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