President Tinubu Rejects Bill Extending Tenure, Retirement Age Of Legislative Officers
President Bola Tinubu has declined to approve a bill seeking to extend the tenure of legislative officers at the National Assembly and in the 36 state Houses of Assembly. The proposed bill aimed to increase the officers’ years of service from 35 to 40 years and raise the retirement age from 60 to 65 years.
The President’s decision to withhold assent was conveyed in a letter read during Tuesday’s Senate session by Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The harmonized bill had faced opposition earlier this year and was stepped down in February 2024 for further consultations and stakeholder input after many senators voted against it.
Originally introduced during the 7th Assembly, the bill stalled during the 9th Assembly and was reintroduced in the current 10th Senate.
In his letter, President Tinubu explained his decision: “Upon thorough examination and careful consideration, I have decided to withhold my assent to the bill,” he wrote. “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 letter was read during the Senate’s first session following an eight-week recess, presided over by Akpabio.
