President Bola Tinubu has firmly rejected a proposed bill that sought to extend the tenure and retirement age of legislative officers in Nigeria’s National Assembly and state Houses of Assembly.

The President’s decision was revealed through a letter read by Senate President Godswill Akpabio on the Senate floor on Tuesday.

The controversial bill had already been postponed in February 2024 for further deliberations following strong opposition from several senators. Now, with President Tinubu’s decision, the bill faces yet another setback.

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In his letter, Tinubu expressed, “After thorough examination and careful consideration, I have decided to withhold my assent to the bill.”

Citing constitutional powers, he added, “This decision is made by the powers vested in me by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. I greatly appreciate the diligent efforts of the Senate in drafting and passing this bill.”

Concluding, the President urged understanding, saying, “I hope you will understand my decision. Please accept the assurances of my highest regard.”