In a bold call for political reform, Dr. Oluwatoyin Jokosenumi, former Director at the Central Bank of Nigeria, has advocated for a single five-year term for the president and governors, arguing that the current system fosters corruption and hampers national development.
He made this statement during the popular current affairs programme, Boiling Point Arena, held on Sunday night.
Jokosenumi, contributing to the topic “The Nigerian Socio-Political and Economic Quagmire: What are the Rescue Options?”, described the existing two-term system as a “crazy idea” and an enabler of greed within the political class.
According to him, politicians have exploited the loopholes in the Nigerian Constitution to secure multiple terms in office, allowing them to enrich themselves at the nation’s expense.
“The strongest recommendation I want to make is a single term of five years for everyone at the national and subnational levels,” Jokosenumi said.
“One term for everybody, whether as President or Governor. The crazy idea about two terms must die. We don’t need it.”
He emphasized that political leaders in Nigeria often shift their focus away from governance after the second year of their first term, instead prioritizing securing resources for re-election campaigns.
This, he argued, disrupts effective governance and stalls meaningful development across the country.
“A lot of our political leaders have been living off government for 20 years or more,” Jokosenumi lamented.
“After serving as governor for eight years, they move to the Senate for endless terms. In some cases, they even lobby to become ministers. What are they looking for? How many years do they want to stay in power?”
The former CBN director also noted that the political class has not delivered the kind of leadership necessary for national growth, stressing that constitutional amendments are necessary to prevent politicians from overstaying their welcome.
He urged Nigerians to demand reforms ahead of the 2027 general elections to ensure a change in leadership dynamics.
The Boiling Point Arena programme, hosted by media professional and public relations strategist Dr. Ayo Arowojolu, was aired via Zoom and broadcast live on Sweet 107.1 FM.
It featured a keynote address from the Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba Prof. Saka Matemilola, and contributions from Prof. Wunmi Iledare, an expert in petroleum economics.
Jokosenumi’s call for reform adds to the growing discourse on how to rescue Nigeria from its current political and economic challenges.
With the 2027 elections approaching, many believe that a change in the country’s leadership structure could be key to unlocking true development.
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