The Presidency has responded to concerns raised by opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, about who is currently in charge of Nigeria while President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima are abroad. Special Adviser to the President on Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, stated that Tinubu's constitutional powers are not limited by his physical location.
According to Bwala, Tinubu can continue to govern Nigeria from anywhere in the world, as his ability to exercise his constitutional responsibilities does not depend on his location. He described as "funny" the questions being asked by opposition candidates about who is in charge of the country simply because the President and Vice President are out of the country.
Bwala emphasized that as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Tinubu can direct and administer the affairs of Nigeria from anywhere. He noted that the President's power to govern Nigeria is not limited to geography, and he can order, direct, delegate, and administer the constitution of Nigeria from anywhere in the world.
The concerns about Tinubu's whereabouts and who is in charge of the country arose after he extended his working vacation abroad by a few days. The State House had announced that the President was expected to return to Nigeria at the weekend. Atiku Abubakar had questioned whether Tinubu transmitted a written declaration under Section 145 of the 1999 Constitution before leaving Nigeria.
Section 145 of the 1999 Constitution requires the President to notify the President of the Senate and Speaker of the House of Representatives in writing when proceeding on vacation or when unable to discharge the functions of office. However, the Presidency has maintained that Tinubu remains in charge of government affairs while abroad.
The exchange between the Presidency and opposition figures highlights the importance of clear communication and transparency in governance. It also underscores the need for constitutional clarity on the procedures for presidential succession and delegation of authority. The incident has sparked a national conversation about the limits of presidential power and the role of the Vice President.
The Presidency's assertion that Tinubu can govern Nigeria from anywhere in the world has significant implications for the country's governance structure. It suggests that the President's authority is not necessarily tied to his physical presence in the country, and that he can continue to exercise his constitutional responsibilities remotely.
Key points
- The Nigerian Presidency says President Bola Tinubu can rule the country from anywhere.
- The Presidency responded to concerns raised by opposition figures about who is currently in charge of Nigeria.
- Tinubu's constitutional powers are not limited by his physical location, according to the Presidency.
