Tinubu is issued a seven-day deadline by Atiku for the audit bill.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has issued a seven-day ultimatum to President Bola Tinubu regarding the Federal Audit Service Bill, demanding either its assent or a formal explanation for his inaction.

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Atiku accuses Tinubu of violating the 1999 Constitution by not responding to the legislation within the legally required timeframe, thus undermining democratic governance and public accountability. He reiterated that the president’s delay represents a disregard for constitutional mandates, stating, “Nigerians deserve clarity, not silence.”

Atiku highlights Section 58(4) of the 1999 Constitution, which mandates that the president must either sign or reject a bill within 30 days. He asserts that this requirement is obligatory, not optional, and emphasizes that continued inaction threatens the integrity of governance and accountability. The Federal Audit Service Bill aims to enhance the independence of the Office of the Auditor-General, modernize Nigeria’s public audit processes, and improve government spending oversight.

Atiku warns that delaying such significant legislation amidst demands for transparency sends the wrong message, suggesting broader constitutional neglect within the current administration. He links this issue to the proposed Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council, using it as an example of the risks posed by weak institutional controls and inconsistent communication.

He argues that a breach of one constitutional obligation diminishes respect for all constitutional safeguards, promoting a culture of impunity that leads to governance issues. Stating that constitutional government cannot thrive with selective law adherence, he calls for the president to exemplify obedience to the law, as the same constitution providing him with authority also imposes obligations. Finally, he mentions that Section 58 also allows the National Assembly to override presidential assent if two-thirds of both the Senate and House pass the bill again, reinforcing the checks and balances necessary in governance. As of the latest update, the presidency has not responded to Atiku’s allegations.

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