Allied Peoples Movement (APM) presidential candidate, Seyi Makinde, has expressed concerns over President Bola Tinubu's prolonged vacation without transmitting power to Vice President Kashim Shettima. Makinde stated that if elected President in 2027, he would comply strictly with the constitutional requirement. He made these remarks at a town hall meeting organised by the Makinde/Daura Presidential Campaign Organisation in Katsina. The Oyo State governor emphasized the importance of adhering to the 1999 Constitution.
President Tinubu embarked on a working vacation to Europe on August 30, initially planned for three weeks. The Presidency later announced an extension of his vacation by a few days. According to Section 145 of the 1999 Constitution, the President must transmit a written declaration to the President of the Senate and Speaker of the House of Representatives when proceeding on vacation or unable to discharge his duties. This allows the Vice-President to perform the functions of President as Acting President.
Makinde criticized the non-transmission of power, citing his own experience as a state governor. He stated that whenever he travels for more than 21 days, he transmits power to his Deputy Governor. The APM presidential candidate emphasized that the Constitution provides for the President to transmit a written declaration to the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives. He promised to follow the Constitution to the letter if elected President.
The Presidency responded to Makinde's criticism, stating that Tinubu remained in touch with Nigeria and continued directing the country's affairs during his vacation. They cited his directive for an independent investigation into the reported deaths of 37 miners detained by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in Niger State. Additionally, Tinubu delegated Shettima to represent him at official engagements, including the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York.
Turning to the 2027 election, Makinde stated that the contest would be between the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and Nigerians, rather than merely between political parties. He urged Nigerians to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and show the APC that Nigeria is bigger than individuals. Makinde's administration, if elected, aims to "reset" the economy, education, and security architecture.
Makinde outlined his vision for a "reset" economy, education, and security architecture. He emphasized the need for an economy capable of operating round the clock, with skills and knowledge, and intensive production. The APM presidential candidate also sought to address the issue of out-of-school children and reset the security architecture in Nigeria.
Makinde rejected a claim attributed to Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, that the Federal Government provided N50 billion for the upgrade of the Ladoke Akintola International Airport, Ibadan. He insisted that the project was wholly funded by his administration.
Key points
- Makinde questions Tinubu's failure to transmit power to Shettima during his vacation.
- The 2027 election will be a contest between the APC and Nigerians.
- Makinde's administration aims to "reset" the economy, education, and security architecture.
