Reps propose bill to switch Nigeria back to parliamentary government

71 lawmakers are sponsoring a bill to introduce the parliamentary system of government to the country.

The bill was read for first time at the house of representatives on Thursday.

Addressing journalists, the 71 lawmakers said a parliamentary system of government would help achieve economic growth and development in the country as the presidential system inflates cost.

The lawmakers led by Kingsley Chinda from Rivers state said: “Studies have shown that countries run by presidential regimes consistently produce: lower output growth, higher and more volatile inflation, and greater income inequality relative to those under parliamentary ones.

“Presidential regimes consistently produce less favourable macroeconomic outcomes which prevail in a wide range of circumstances for example in Nigeria.

“Due to the excessive powers domiciled to one man under the presidental systems, consensus building that is often required for economic decision is always lacking.

“The level of liability and volatility of presidential systems makes it difficult to achieve economic objectives.”

They also argued that parliamentary systems promote inclusion and collectiveness “which is critical to equality of income distribution and opportunities.”

Among the representatives include those of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and All Progressives Congress (APC).