Tinubu Declines Assent to Bill Extending Tenure of Federal, State Legislators

President Bola Tinubu has declined to sign a bill seeking to extend the tenure of federal and state lawmakers in Nigeria. The bill aimed to increase the service period for legislators in the National Assembly and the 36 state Houses of Assembly from 35 to 40 years, while raising their retirement age from 60 to 65 years.

The president’s decision was communicated through a letter read on the Senate floor today by the Senate President, Sen. Godswill Akpabio. In the letter, Tinubu explained his reasons for withholding assent, citing careful consideration of the bill’s provisions.

“Upon thorough examination and careful consideration, I have decided to withhold my assent to the bill,” Tinubu’s letter stated. “This decision is made by the powers vested in me by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. I wish to express my sincere appreciation for the diligent work of the Senate regarding the drafting and passage of this Bill. I hope you will receive it with understanding. Please accept the assurances of my highest regard.”

The controversial bill was first introduced during the 7th Assembly, passed to the 9th, and then to the current 10th Senate. It faced considerable opposition in February 2024, when it was stepped down for further consultation after many senators voted against it.