Aggrieved members of the National Assembly (NASS) staff have petitioned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging him to veto the recently passed NASS Tenure Elongation Bill. The petitioners argue that the bill raises significant constitutional concerns and undermines transparency within the legislative process.
According to Akobo Teinye Tonbo Seddon, the legal adviser to the Foundation for Rights Enforcement Enlightenment and Defence, the bill’s provisions compromise fairness, equity, and justice. “This bill sets a dangerous precedent and threatens the integrity of our democratic institutions,” Seddon stated.
The petitioners contend that the bill contravenes the Nigerian Constitution’s clear provisions regarding the establishment and operational terms of the National Assembly. They emphasize that any changes to these terms and conditions must be enacted through a constitutional amendment.
In their detailed plea, the aggrieved staff argue that the bill potentially violates several constitutional sections related to equality, non-discrimination, social justice, and freedom from forced labor. They stress that the bill unfairly favors existing employees over new entrants, thereby perpetuating inequality and unfairness within the National Assembly.
Moreover, the petitioners highlight concerns about the bill’s implications on the principles of separation of powers and checks and balances. They argue that the legislative arm is overstepping its boundaries by encroaching on the executive’s powers and disregarding the National Council of Establishment’s role. This encroachment, they believe, is self-serving and primarily benefits the Clerk of the National Assembly at the expense of staff welfare and productivity, as well as the public interest.
In their appeal to President Tinubu, the staff urged him to consider the long-term ramifications of signing the bill into law. They argued that endorsing the bill would not only compromise the democratic framework but also set a troubling precedent for future legislative practices.
The petition, which was also sent to the Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), further elucidated how the bill contradicts specific constitutional mandates. “The bill violates the clear provisions of the constitution, which establish the National Assembly and define the terms and conditions of service for its officials. Specifically, Section 51 of the Constitution states that ‘There shall be a clerk to the National Assembly and such other staff as may be prescribed by an act of the National Assembly, and the method of appointment of the clerk and other staff of the National Assembly shall be as prescribed by that act’,” the petitioners stated.
The NASS Tenure Elongation Bill has sparked widespread controversy and debate among political analysts, legal experts, and the public. Critics argue that the bill, if signed into law, could undermine the credibility of the legislative process and erode public trust in governmental institutions.
