ABUJA, Nigeria – The Nigerian Senate has reversed its recent decision to restrict first-time senators from seeking top leadership positions, effectively clearing the path for all members to contest for presiding offices in the future.
Okay News reports that the upper chamber decided to set aside the controversial amendment to its standing rules during a plenary session on Thursday. The previous rule had required lawmakers to have served at least one full term before being eligible for the roles of Senate President or Deputy Senate President.
The U-turn followed internal deliberations and reported tensions among lawmakers regarding the 2027 leadership race. The initial amendment had been criticized by some members who argued it was discriminatory and limited the democratic choices available to the legislative body.
By rescinding the restriction, the National Assembly has now restored the eligibility of first-term senators to vie for principal roles. This move is expected to heighten political maneuvering as different factions begin to strategize for the next assembly’s leadership structure.
