President Bola Tinubu has refused to grant assent to a bill that proposed extending the tenure of service for legislative officers at the National Assembly and the 36 state Houses of Assembly from 35 to 40 years, along with increasing the retirement age from 60 to 65 years.
The president’s decision was conveyed in a letter read by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during today’s Senate session.
The contentious retirement age bill, initially introduced during the 7th Assembly, was stepped down in February 2024 for further research and consultation with stakeholders after facing opposition from many senators.
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It was later revisited in both the 9th and 10th Assemblies but failed to gain approval.
The President’s letter read that ‘ Upon thorough examination and careful consideration, I have decided to withhold my assent to the bill”, Tinubu 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 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.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio presided over the resumption of legislative proceedings following an eight-week recess.
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