Professor Adewunmi Falode, a Professor of International Relations and Strategic Studies at LASU, made the proposal during the university’s 115th inaugural lecture held at the Buba Marwa Auditorium. His lecture, titled “Bespoke Solutions: Reimagining, Reifying and Realigning the Wheels of the Nigerian State”, focused on structural reforms needed to address Nigeria’s governance challenges.
Falode argued that the two-term, eight-year system currently in place fosters unhealthy competition, political instability, and corruption, as leaders often spend their first term positioning themselves for re-election rather than focusing on governance. A single, longer tenure, he said, would allow leaders to concentrate fully on delivering their mandates without the distraction of electoral politics.
“Nigeria must scrap the two-term system now. A single, non-renewable seven-year tenure will stabilise governance and reduce political tension,” Falode declared PM News Nigeria.
His position aligns with earlier calls by prominent figures such as Governor Seyi Makinde, former Anambra State governor Peter Obi, economist Pat Utomi, former NBA President Wole Olanipekun (SAN), and ex–Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu, who have all advocated for a single term of five to six years for political office holders PM News Nigeria.
Falode emphasized that Nigeria’s political culture requires bespoke solutions tailored to its unique challenges, rather than copying models from other countries. He noted that a seven-year single term would give leaders sufficient time to implement policies, strengthen institutions, and leave a lasting legacy.
Broader Context
Governance Stability: Advocates believe a single term would reduce the “do-or-die” nature of Nigerian elections.
Policy Continuity: Leaders would have more time to pursue long-term development projects without fear of electoral backlash.
Checks and Balances: Critics, however, warn that without strong institutions, a longer single term could entrench authoritarian tendencies.
