Political economist Prof Pat Utomi has called for an age limit on executive political positions in Nigeria, stating that no one over 70 should run for president or governor. Speaking Thursday on Channels Television’s “Politics Today” program, Utomi argued that while some legislators could serve until 75 or even 80, executive positions require different standards.
Utomi criticized the current system, saying: “I’m insisting that I will converse to the Nigerian people that nobody over the age of 70 should run for an executive position, whether it be governor or president.” He added: “But the Nigerian people must not continue to tolerate the presidency being where you keep people who need medical attention. Doing so is at the great expense to the Nigerian taxpayer, who is not getting the quality of services they should get from these public office holders.”