Utomi proposes age limit for presidents, governors

Renowned political economist, Prof. Pat Utomi, has proposed an age limit of 70 years for individuals seeking election into executive offices in Nigeria, insisting that no one above that age should contest for the positions of President or Governor.

Utomi made the call on Thursday during an interview on Politics Today, a Channels Television programme.

According to him, the physical and mental demands of executive leadership require a level of vitality that may be difficult to sustain beyond the age of 70, noting that governance should not become a burden on the state or taxpayers.

“I am insisting that nobody above the age of 70 should run for an executive position, whether as governor or president,” Utomi said.

He, however, made a distinction between executive and legislative roles, stating that older politicians could still be useful in the legislature due to the nature of the work involved.

“Yes, some people can remain in the legislature until they are 75, or even close to 80. But the presidency should not be a place where we keep people who constantly need medical attention,” he added.

Utomi warned that the cost of frequent medical care for aging public office holders places an unnecessary burden on the Nigerian taxpayer, while also affecting the quality of governance and service delivery.

He urged Nigerians to demand better standards in leadership selection, stressing that competence, capacity, and fitness should be prioritised in choosing those entrusted with executive power.