Orji Kalu Advocates Single Six-Year Tenure for Presidents, Governors

Former Governor of Abia State and Senator representing Abia North, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, has called for the adoption of a single six-year tenure for presidents and governors, describing it as the most effective model for good governance and political stability in Nigeria.

Kalu made the call on Sunday while reacting to ongoing deliberations by the Constitution Review Committee of the National Assembly, urging the committee to consider amending the 1999 Constitution to reflect the proposal.

According to him, a single-term tenure would reduce the high cost of governance, minimize political tension, and allow elected leaders to focus more on delivering dividends of democracy rather than seeking re-election.

“A single term of six years is the best for governance in Nigeria. It will help reduce the struggle and distractions that come with second-term politics and allow leaders to concentrate fully on the business of governance,” Kalu said.

The lawmaker also argued that the proposal would promote equity and fairness among the country’s diverse regions, as it would give more political zones the opportunity to produce a president or governor within a shorter cycle.

Kalu, who served as Abia State Governor between 1999 and 2007, urged his colleagues to approach the constitution review process with sincerity and a genuine desire to strengthen the nation’s democratic system.

The call by the former Senate Chief Whip adds to the growing national debate on constitutional reforms, particularly concerning tenure limits, devolution of powers, and governance restructuring.