The House of Representatives has rejected a bill proposing the geo-political rotation of Nigeria’s presidency.
The bill sponsored by the deputy speaker, Tajudeen Abbas, failed to pass through during the plenary of the green chambers on Tuesday.
Kalu, who led the debate on the bill, said the bill would promote inclusivity across the federation.
“This will enable every part of this country to contribute to the national leadership of this country,” he said.
“There is no region that does not have capable people who can lead. It would increase national cohesion and national unity. What is good for the goose is also good for the gander.”
Sani Madaki, from Kano State and a member of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) and deputy minority leader, rejected the bill, saying zoning should be a political party affair.
Also speaking, Ali Isa, the minority whip, supported he bill, saying it would address marginalisation and promote fairness.
Clement Jimbo, a lawmaker from Akwa Ibom, offered support for the bill, arguing that it would “cure an age-long injustice” in the country, predominantly in minority zones that may not have the chance to rule.
Mohammed el-Rufai from Kaduna stated that the bill might infringe on Nigerians’ constitutional right to run for president.
Kalu called for a voice vote on the bill, including those that had not been debated, but the lawmakers voted against them.
In response to the rejection, Francis Waive, chairman of the House Committee on Rules and Business, raised a point of order, requesting that the rejected bills be considered individually.
Among the rejected proposals was a bill sponsored by the Speaker, Tajudeen Abbas, which sought to remove the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) authority to register and regulate political parties.
