National Security Council Membership and Independent Candidacy Bills Sent for Presidential Approval

In Nigeria, a bill directing that the Senate and House of Representatives’ presiding officers become a part of the National Security Council (NSC) was passed by the Senate on Tuesday, alongside a bill that permits individuals to contest elections without being members of a political party.

The bills, which are part of the Fifth Alteration Bill numbered 46 and Amendment 58, respectively, will be transmitted to the presidency for assent. The presiding officers concerned are the Senate President, Deputy Senate President, Speaker of the House of Representatives and the Deputy Speaker.

Ovie Omo-Agege, the Deputy Senate President and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Constitution Amendment, sponsored the motion and disclosed that the Gombe State House of Assembly had approved the bill to satisfy its constitutional obligation. The amended constitution, which was earlier rejected by the Gombe State House of Assembly, has subsequently been passed by the committee, leaving Jigawa, Kebbi, Kwara, Plateau, and Taraba Houses of Assembly as of the date of the passage – Tuesday, May 16, 2023.

On May 2, 2023, the National Assembly passed Constitution Alteration Bill No. 20 that directs a Uniform Retirement Age for Judicial Officers. The bill was transmitted to the president for his assent after meeting the requirements of Section 9(2) of the constitution.

The bill on National Security Council membership seeks to promote unity and encourage all stakeholders to work together to ensure the country’s safety and security. On the other hand, the independent candidacy bill aims to grant citizens the freedom to run for elections without necessarily choosing political sides.

With the passing of these two bills, Nigerians can be optimistic about the start of major changes in their political landscape.