Senate President Godswill Akpabio has addressed concerns about the absence of President Bola Tinubu and Vice-President Kashim Shettima, stating that Tinubu remains in charge of Nigeria despite his vacation abroad. Akpabio made these remarks at an event in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State. According to him, Tinubu is on a working leave and continues to run the affairs of Nigeria from abroad.
President Tinubu departed Nigeria on August 30, 2023, for a three-week vacation in Europe. However, the Presidency announced on September 21 that he had extended his stay abroad by a few days. This development sparked debate about who currently exercises the constitutional powers of the President. Bolaji Abdullahi, spokesman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), questioned the Presidency and the National Assembly about the situation.
Omoyele Sowore, Presidential Candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), called on the National Assembly to commence the constitutional process to mandate Vice-President Shettima to perform presidential functions as Acting President. Sowore cited Section 145(2) of the 1999 Constitution, which stipulates that if the President fails to transmit a written declaration within 21 days, the National Assembly should mandate the Vice-President to act.
Akpabio countered that there is no vacancy in the Presidency, emphasizing that Tinubu is still in power. He explained that with modern technology, Tinubu can give instructions from abroad, making his physical presence in Nigeria unnecessary. Akpabio also pointed out that Shettima attended the UNGA in New York on Tinubu's behalf.
The controversy surrounding Tinubu's absence and the exercise of presidential powers has raised concerns about governance and adherence to the Constitution. Critics argue that the situation creates uncertainty and undermines the constitutional provisions for the transfer of power. Akpabio's assertion that Tinubu remains in charge aims to reassure the public that governance continues uninterrupted.
Akpabio's comments reflect the position of the National Assembly, which has not publicly declared a vacancy in the Presidency. As Chairman of the National Assembly, Akpabio's statement is seen as authoritative on the matter. However, the debate about the interpretation of constitutional provisions and the exercise of presidential powers is likely to continue.
The situation highlights the complexities of modern governance, where technology enables leaders to perform duties remotely. Nevertheless, the constitutional framework and the need for clear lines of authority remain essential in ensuring stability and predictability in governance. Key to this issue is the interpretation of Section 145 of the Constitution and its application in the current situation.
Key points
- President Tinubu remains in charge despite his vacation abroad, according to Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
- The absence of President Tinubu and Vice-President Shettima has sparked debate about who exercises the constitutional powers of the President.
- The situation raises concerns about governance, adherence to the Constitution, and the transfer of power.
