A group of lawmakers of the House of Representative, on Thursday, called for the return of Nigeria from the presidential to the parliamentary system of government.
Spokesmen of the group, Kingsley Chinda (PDP, Rivers) and Nicholas Ossai (PDP, Delta) told journalists at the National Assembly in Abuja that the parliamentary system that was adopted in 1960 is the best economic benefit that happened to Nigeria.
According to Chinda, the 71 lawmakers which make up the group believe strongly that the parliamentary system can be achieved once again in Nigeria.
He added that parliamentary system, as opposed to the presidential system, suits Nigeria because it is more economic friendly, cost-effective and largely efficient in the conduct of government business.
“We are 71 bi-partisan members of the House of Representatives, who feel that the parliamentary system of government promulgated by the Lyttleton Constitution of 1954 is the best for Nigeria since the presidential system has reduced us to the poverty capital of the world.
“Our position in this legislation clearly points to compelling advantages of a parliamentary system of government, such as economic growth and development, as well as inherent efficiency in the conduct of government business.
“Studies have shown that countries under the presidential regimes consistently produce lower output, volatile inflation and greater income inequality relative to those under the parliamentary system,” the group said.
The group also added that the present presidential system’s over-centralisation of government decisions obstructs economic development and makes it difficult to achieve economic objectives.