Tinubu Third Term Suggestion Sparks Debate as Oluwo Speaks

The Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi, has suggested that Nigerians may, in the future, push for a constitutional amendment to allow President Bola Tinubu to remain in office beyond the current two-term limit.

 

The monarch made the remark in a congratulatory message issued through his spokesperson, Ibrahim Alli, to mark the President’s 74th birthday.

 

“Many Nigerians may call for a constitutional review to enable Tinubu to serve more than two terms in office. He is a leader who knows what he is doing,” the statement read.

 

Oba Akanbi praised Tinubu’s leadership, describing him as decisive and committed to reforms aimed at repositioning the country’s economy.

 

He cited what he described as improvements in key economic indicators, including the naira and foreign reserves, which he said had risen significantly in recent months.

 

The monarch attributed these developments to structural reforms such as exchange rate unification, increased oil production, and improved foreign investment inflows.

 

He also commended the administration’s policies on local government autonomy, increased allocations to states, infrastructure development, and social intervention efforts.

 

According to him, previous administrations had struggled to implement similar reforms due to public and political resistance.

 

“You are not yet a capable leader until you take decisions and stand by them. Many past presidents attempted reforms but were overwhelmed by public outcries. Tinubu has demonstrated uncommon leadership,” he said.

 

President Tinubu, who marked his 74th birthday on Sunday, opted for a low-key celebration in light of prevailing economic challenges in the country.

 

Since assuming office in May 2023, his administration has introduced major economic policies, including the removal of fuel subsidy and the unification of the foreign exchange system—moves the government says are necessary for long-term stability.

 

However, the suggestion of a possible third term is likely to generate debate, as Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution (as amended) clearly limits the president to two terms of four years each.

 

Any attempt to extend tenure beyond this provision would require a constitutional amendment, a process that involves approval by the National Assembly and endorsement by state legislatures.