During a lecture at Harvard Law School in Boston, Massachusetts, USA, Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, voiced his support for a parliamentary system of government in Nigeria. He emphasized the need for a system where the president regularly engages with citizens, suggesting a monthly interaction.
Obi criticized the current presidential system in Nigeria, asserting that it hinders accountability and enables ineffective leadership to persist for four-year terms. He highlighted the importance of a parliamentary framework, citing that under such a system, a motion of no confidence could be initiated within a shorter timeframe of two to three years.
In his address, Obi proposed that in a parliamentary setup, the president would also serve as a member of parliament, ensuring direct accountability and transparency. He contrasted this with the current scenario where leaders can shield themselves from scrutiny by surrounding themselves with spokespersons who deflect accountability.
According to Obi, the essence of a parliamentary system lies in the mandatory participation of the president during sessions such as the president’s question time, where they are compelled to address queries without relying on intermediaries. He stressed the significance of elected leaders directly engaging with the electorate, underscoring that citizens deserve to have access to their chosen representatives.
Obi concluded by advocating for a shift to a parliamentary government system in Nigeria to foster better governance and enhance the connection between elected officials and the populace.