President Bola Tinubu has refused to sign a bill that aimed to extend the tenure of legislative officers at the National Assembly and the 36 state Houses of Assembly from 35 to 40 years, while also raising the retirement age from 60 to 65 years.
The president’s refusal to assent was communicated in a letter read on the Senate floor today by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
The contentious retirement age bill was initially set aside in February 2024 for further research and consultations with stakeholders after a significant number of senators opposed it.
Originally introduced during the 7th Assembly, the bill was passed to the 9th Assembly, where it faced delays, and was then brought to the 10th Senate.
In his letter, Tinubu stated, “Upon thorough examination and careful consideration, I have decided to withhold my assent to the bill.”
“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”, the letter read.
Akpabio presided over the resumption of legislative sitting after eight weeks of recess.