President Bola Tinubu’s continued absence from Nigeria has generated renewed political and constitutional debate after his initially announced three week working vacation was extended.
Tinubu left Nigeria on August 30, 2026, for London before travelling to Paris, France. The Presidency initially said he would return on September 21, but later announced that his stay had been extended by a few days. His return was subsequently expected on September 27, before reports indicated another adjustment, with Tuesday, September 29 now expected as the return date.
The prolonged absence has attracted questions from opposition figures and some lawmakers over the constitutional arrangements governing presidential authority while the President remains abroad.
The African Democratic Congress Presidential Campaign Council has asked the Presidency to explain Tinubu’s whereabouts, the reason for the extended stay and the constitutional basis for the arrangement.
Some lawmakers have also called for the National Assembly to examine whether the requirements of Section 145 of the 1999 Constitution were followed. The provision concerns the President transmitting a written declaration when proceeding on vacation and arrangements for the Vice President to perform presidential functions in an acting capacity.
The Senate, however, has said there is no need for the National Assembly to reconvene over the matter. Senate President Godswill Akpabio has maintained that Tinubu remains in charge of the country and can continue directing government affairs while abroad.
The Presidency has also maintained that Tinubu has remained in contact with officials and continued directing the affairs of government during his stay abroad.
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