NFFL Seeks Constitutional Backing for Rotational Presidency
The National Forum of Former Legislators (NFFL) has called for the constitutional entrenchment of rotational presidency between Nigeria’s North and South, describing it as essential for equity, political stability and national unity.
The call formed part of resolutions reached at the Forum’s 2026 National Summit held Saturday in Abuja with the theme “National Unity and Nation Building: Beyond 2031.”
In a communiqué issued at the end of the meeting, the former lawmakers said constitutionalising rotation would eliminate uncertainty, deepen trust between regions and strengthen democratic stability.
The Forum affirmed that, in line with the principle of equity, the presidency should rotate to the North in 2031 after the completion of the current southern tenure under President Bola Tinubu.
It also resolved to support the continuity of the Tinubu administration’s reforms and adopted the President as its sole candidate for the 2027 general election, passing a vote of confidence in his leadership.
Chief of Staff to the President and Convener of the Summit, Femi Gbajabiamila backed rotational presidency as a “wise and principled compromise” for managing Nigeria’s diversity.
He warned against allowing personal ambition to undermine arrangements that sustain unity and peace, stressing that national unity is a strategic necessity for Nigeria’s survival and progress.
Gbajabiamila said Nigeria’s internal cohesion was critical at a time of global uncertainty, adding that former legislators possess institutional memory that must be harnessed for nation building.
He highlighted reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda, including regional development commissions, nationwide infrastructure projects and social programmes, as efforts aimed at strengthening inclusion and shared national purpose.
National Coordinator of the Summit, Hon. Raphael Igbokwe, also called for the codification of rotational power sharing, arguing that power struggles remain a major source of conflict in the country.
He urged stronger action against insecurity and appealed for improved welfare and recognition for former lawmakers.
Chairman of the Summit and former Senate President, Ken Nnamani, said former legislators have a duty to educate Nigerians on democratic succession and national unity, noting that the Abuja summit reflected a broad, inclusive national dialogue.
The Forum reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful engagement, dialogue and consultation as tools for resolving Nigeria’s political and social challenges.
