Nobody Above 70 Years Should Run For Political Office — Pat Utomi

Professor of Political Economy, Pat Utomi, has called for an age limit on elective offices in Nigeria, saying individuals above 70 years should not contest for political positions.

Utomi made the remark in a post shared on his verified X account on Sunday, where he expressed concerns over leadership, governance and accountability in the country.

According to him, Nigeria has repeatedly witnessed situations where public officials allegedly continued to wield power through unelected individuals despite being unable to effectively discharge their responsibilities.

He referenced the administrations of late former President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua and former President Muhammadu Buhari, alleging that those around them governed on their behalf during periods of ill health.

“Impunity and disregard of decent order has become our way. When Yar’Adua was dying people lied and governed in his name.

“They did the same with Buhari. They are doing so again. This is high treason. This is why I say nobody over 70 should run for office. I am 70 years old,” Utomi stated.

The political economist argued that introducing an age limit for elective positions would help strengthen democratic governance and ensure that public office holders are fully capable of carrying out the responsibilities entrusted to them.

Utomi has consistently advocated political and institutional reforms aimed at improving governance and deepening Nigeria’s democracy.

He recently renewed calls for greater investment in civic education, maintaining that educating young Nigerians about democratic values and responsible citizenship remains essential to sustaining democratic institutions and promoting national development.

His latest comments are expected to contribute to ongoing public debate over constitutional reforms, leadership succession and eligibility requirements for elective offices ahead of the 2027 general elections.

As of the time of filing this report, there was no official response from the Federal Government or the National Assembly regarding Utomi’s proposal for an age limit for political office holders.