President Bola Tinubu has declined assent to a controversial bill seeking to extend the tenure and retirement age of legislative officers at both the National Assembly and the 36 state Houses of Assembly.
The bill proposed increasing the tenure of service for legislators from 35 to 40 years and their retirement age from 60 to 65 years.
Tinubu’s refusal was communicated in a letter read by Senate President Godswill Akpabio on the Senate floor on Tuesday.
The harmonised bill, which has faced strong opposition, was first introduced during the 7th Assembly and reintroduced in subsequent sessions.
In February 2024, the bill was stepped down for further consultations after many senators voted against it.
“Upon thorough examination and careful consideration, I have decided to withhold my assent to the bill,” Tinubu wrote in his letter.
“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 with regard to the drafting and passage of this Bill. I hope you will receive it with understanding. Please accept the assurances of my highest regard.”
