President Bola Tinubu has declined assent to a bill that aimed to increase the tenure of service and retirement age of legislative officers at the National Assembly and state Houses of Assembly from 35 to 40 years and their retirement age from 60 to 65 years.

The president’s declined assent was conveyed in a letter read on the floor of the Senate today, September 24, 2024 by the President of the Senate, Sen. Godswill Akpabio.

The harmonised controversial retirement age bill was first stepped down in February, 2024 for further research and consultation with stakeholders, due to significant opposition from senators.

The bill was first introduced during the 7th Assembly, but was transmitted to the 9th Assembly where it suffered a standstill and subsequently to the 10th Senate.

President Tinubu’s letter reads: “Upon thorough examination and careful consideration, I have decided to withhold my assent to the bill.

“This decision is made by the powers vested in me by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“I wish to express my sincere appreciation for the diligent work of the Senate with regard to the drafting and passage of this Bill.

“I hope you will receive it with understanding. Please accept the assurances of my highest regard.”