Orji Kalu Pushes for Single-Term Presidency to End Wasteful Politics

Orji Kalu Pushes for Single-Term Presidency to End Wasteful Politics

Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has reignited the debate on Nigeria’s political structure, calling for a single six-year tenure for the President and State Governors  a move he believes would “end wasteful politics” and refocus leaders on governance.

Speaking at the National Assembly on Sunday, the former Abia State Governor and Chief Whip of the 9th Senate urged the Constitution Review Committee to amend the 1999 Constitution to accommodate what he described as a transformational reform for Nigeria’s democracy.

“A single six-year tenure is the best for this country,” Kalu said firmly. “It will remove the distraction of second-term politics and give leaders enough time to deliver meaningful results for the people.”

Kalu argued that the current two-term system has fueled corruption and desperation among politicians seeking re-election. He stressed that a one-term limit would not only save the nation billions in election costs but also promote fairness and rotation of leadership across regions.

“Our politics is too expensive and divisive. With a single term, every leader knows they have one shot to perform, and that’s what governance should be about  service, not survival,” he added.

His proposal comes as part of ongoing discussions in the National Assembly to amend key sections of the 1999 Constitution. The Constitution Review Committee is expected to submit its report before the end of December 2025.

However, while some Nigerians have welcomed Kalu’s idea, others are cautious. Critics argue that removing the possibility of re-election might reduce accountability, as leaders would no longer face the pressure of electoral performance.

Still, Kalu insists the reform could reset Nigeria’s democratic priorities.

“Let’s give governance back its focus. Let every leader come, serve, and leave  no distractions, no second-term drama,” he said.

If passed, the single six-year tenure could become one of the most significant constitutional changes in Nigeria’s political history potentially reshaping how power and performance are measured in the country’s democracy.