The recent amendment of the Standing Rules of the Nigerian Senate has been described as a victory for democracy and in accordance with global best practices.
A civic organization, Citizens Network for Peace and Development in Nigeria, backed the development in a statement signed by National Coordinator, Chief Rapheal Ikechukwu Okorie, on Wednesday.
Going by the amendment, leadership positions in the Red Chamber would not be open to first term senators, particularly governors who habitually move to the Senate on completion of their terms.
Citizens Network for Peace and Development in Nigeria described the move as bold and forward-looking, noting that it is in sync with what is obtainable in credible parliaments across the world.
The statement said, “Citizens Network for Peace and Development in Nigeria warmly commends the Nigerian Senate for amending its Standing Rules to restrict eligibility for principal and presiding offices in the 11th National Assembly to ranking members with at least two consecutive terms of service.
“This bold and forward-looking decision demonstrates that the Nigerian Senate is firmly attuned to global parliamentary best practices. Across the world’s most mature democracies, leadership of legislative institutions is entrusted to experienced hands.
“The United States Congress offers instructive examples — from Speaker Nancy Pelosi to Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, who served in various leadership capacities from 2007 to 2025 — underscoring the universal value of rewarding legislative experience and institutional continuity.”
Describing the development as widely accepted by Nigerian citizens, the civic organization said it is a popular course of action that would deepen democracy and strengthen the institutional foundations of the National Assembly.
“The amended rules, in our considered opinion, rise above any individual ambition. They are designed to outlast the present political moment and remain sustainable now and in the future.
“Crucially, this amendment is not about closing doors on any one person. It is about sending a clear message that the Senate is looking beyond its present composition toward the long-term integrity and effectiveness of Nigeria’s premier legislative chamber.
“Rules that reward experience and discourage impunity must be celebrated by every Nigerian who believes in the rule of law and the health of our democracy,” the statement added.
The organization urged all Nigerians, civil society organisations and political actors to support the amendment and to hold the Senate accountable for its full implementation.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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