Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has called for a single term of five or six years for elected political office holders across Nigeria, saying it would allow leaders to focus on governance without the distractions of re-election campaigns.
Speaking at his Ibadan residence on Friday after Eid-el-Kabir prayers, Governor Makinde shared his reflections with a delegation of Muslim leaders, traditional rulers, and politicians who paid him a courtesy visit.
The governor, who is in his second term, said he believes the current two-term structure, with each term lasting four years, comes with unnecessary disruptions.
“I have spent six years already. In 2020, we lost almost a year to the COVID-19 pandemic. We also spent time campaigning for re-election. Now, people are asking what I plan to do next,” Makinde said.
“In reality, when you remove all these distractions, a focused five or six-year single term should be enough to deliver meaningful results.”
Makinde urged Nigerians and the National Assembly to consider amending the constitution to reflect this proposal, stressing that it is not about personal gain but about long-term national interest.
He added, “We must speak the truth based on facts. This idea has come up before, and I believe it’s time we take it seriously.”
Also speaking at the event, the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, conveyed greetings from the Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, and called for continued support for Governor Makinde’s administration.
Deputy Governor Barrister Bayo Lawal also urged the Muslim community to embrace the values of sacrifice and obedience to God, especially during the Eid season. He praised the governor for prompt salary payments and urged residents to continue cooperating with the government.
The Eid celebration brought together key political figures and religious leaders, including Senator Rashidi Ladoja, Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja, Hon. Abass Agboworin, and the Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Alhaji Dawodu Makanjuola.