The African Democratic Congress has raised concerns about the constitutional implications of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice-President Kashim Shettima's continued absence from Nigeria. According to the party, Tinubu left Nigeria on August 30 and has been outside the country for more than 21 days. The ADC's National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, stated that this prolonged absence raises questions about compliance with Section 145 of the Constitution.
Section 145 of the Constitution provides a procedure for the transfer of presidential functions when the President proceeds on vacation. The ADC demands to know whether the required declaration was transmitted by the President. The party also questions why the National Assembly had not acted if the President failed to transmit the declaration contemplated by Section 145.
The ADC rejects explanations that Tinubu is on a "working vacation" or that the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, can represent the President at official functions. According to the party, representation at official events does not confer the constitutional powers of the President or Acting President on the SGF.
The party argues that representation is not governance and attendance at official functions is not presidential authority. The ADC emphasizes that Nigeria cannot be governed through ceremonial proxies, telephone calls, and press statements issued from foreign capitals.
The opposition party further rejects the argument that Tinubu can continue directing affairs of government from abroad, insisting that a "working vacation" is not a constitutional category capable of replacing the procedure established by Section 145.
The ADC's concerns highlight the need for clarity on the exercise of presidential authority in the absence of the President and Vice-President. The party's statement sparks a national debate on the interpretation of the Constitution and the limits of presidential power.
The situation may have implications for governance and stability in Nigeria, particularly if the President and Vice-President remain absent for an extended period. The ADC's call for adherence to the Constitution underscores the importance of upholding democratic norms and the rule of law.
Key points
- The African Democratic Congress questions the constitutional implications of President Bola Tinubu and Vice-President Kashim Shettima's prolonged absence from Nigeria.
- The party argues that representation at official events does not confer presidential authority.
- The ADC demands clarity on whether the required declaration was transmitted by the President in accordance with Section 145 of the Constitution.
