Nigerian lawmakers have engaged in a fierce debate over a proposed constitutional amendment that aimed to elevate the educational qualifications necessary for individuals aspiring to the presidency, governorship, and legislative offices to a university degree.
The bill, championed by Deputy Chief Whip Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga, also known as Ijaya, faced significant opposition from several lawmakers who staunchly argued that educational credentials should not be the sole determinant of leadership capabilities.
During the extensive two-hour debate, Onanuga contended that the current requirement of a secondary school certificate fell short of the country’s needs, advocating for a minimum university degree for all elective positions. “Are we saying our students have no reasoning?” she questioned, urging a reevaluation of the existing standards.
Backing the bill, Babajimi Benson emphasized its overdue nature, noting, “I sponsored the same bill in the last assembly. It is what the House should support. Anyone opposed to this bill should be asked if their children are not in universities.”
Supporting voices included Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda, Majority Leader Julius Ihonvbere, and Leke Abejide, all emphasizing the importance of raising the educational bar for public office. Chinda argued that primary school certificates, deemed insufficient for private employment, should likewise be deemed inadequate for public offices.
However, the proposal faced strong opposition from seven lawmakers, with Ahmed Jaha from Borno State asserting that certification does not equate to wisdom. Aliyu Madaki also insisted that leadership quality should not be solely determined by educational qualifications.
Amidst growing dissent, the bill’s initiator, Onanuga, announced its withdrawal, citing the need for further consultations. The clash underscores the ongoing debate in Nigeria about the relationship between education and political leadership, with lawmakers sharply divided on the issue.
