President Bola Tinubu has declined assent to a bill seeking 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 their retirement age from 60 to 65 years.
The president’s decision was conveyed in a letter read on the Senate floor today by the President of the Senate, Sen. Godswill Akpabio.
The controversial retirement age bill was first postponed in February 2024 for further research and consultations with stakeholders, after a significant number of senators voted against it.
Initially introduced during the 7th Assembly, the bill was transmitted to the 9th Assembly, where it hit a standstill, and subsequently 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 regarding the drafting and passage of this Bill. I hope you will receive it with understanding. Please accept the assurances of my highest regard.”
Sen. Akpabio presided over the resumption of legislative sittings following an eight-week recess.
