Abdusamad Dasuki, a member of the House of Representatives representing Kebbe/Tambuwal Federal Constituency in Sokoto State, has advocated for a return to the parliamentary system of government in Nigeria, citing the failure of the current presidential democracy.
Speaking on the socio-political program “Inside Sources with Laolu Akande” on Channels Television, Dasuki described Nigeria’s current situation as a “state of quagmire” and likened it to a house with a faulty foundation.
He emphasized that the existing system has not been able to deliver the level of representative democracy where the executive arm, starting with the President, is fully accountable to the Nigerian people.
Dasuki highlighted the need for change, stating, “Things are not working in Nigeria, we can’t deny that fact.” He argued that the system itself is flawed, providing too much power, which often leads to corruption. He pointed out that Nigeria’s founding fathers envisioned a pluralistic state where various voices are represented.
The call for a transition to a parliamentary system gained momentum in mid-February when 60 lawmakers in the House of Representatives proposed amendments to the 1999 Constitution to effect this change.
The bill, titled ‘The Bills Proposing Constitutional Alterations For a Transition To Parliamentary System of Government,’ was introduced by the House Minority Leader, Kingsley Chinda, and 59 others.
Although the bill was read on the floor of the House during plenary in Abuja, it has not progressed since the first reading about four months ago.
Many prominent Nigerians have supported the transition to a parliamentary system, including Dasuki. He stressed the need for a homegrown parliamentary system, not one copied from elsewhere.
He envisioned a parliament where elected representatives, including the Prime Minister and ministers, are accountable to the people.
Dasuki proposed a scenario where Bola Tinubu serves as the Prime Minister, Atiku Abubakar heads the opposition, and Peter Obi is also a member of parliament.
He argued that such a system would ensure accountability, efficiency, and reduce corruption, as cabinet members could be recalled by elected representatives if they fail to perform satisfactorily.
In addition to advocating for a transition to a parliamentary system, Dasuki proposed that the process should begin with the local government elections in 2027.
He suggested that local government chairmen should be elected from among the ward councillors. If a chairman fails to perform, he could be recalled, and a new chairman elected from among the councillors.
He explained, “There shouldn’t be an election for local government chairmen in 2027, the same as for governors and the President. The elected representatives should elect from among themselves.”
After the initial reading of the bill in the House, proponents of parliamentary democracy have been strategic about the second reading.
They have been consulting with individuals who witnessed the First Republic to seek their support and advice. Elder statesmen such as Ango Abdullahi, Edwin Clark, Segun Osoba, and Bisi Akande have been consulted, and they have expressed their approval of transitioning to a parliamentary system of government.
