The Supreme Powers of the President

President Olusegun Obasanjo, upon being sworn in, delayed signing the Proclamation for the first sitting of the National Assembly, causing a day of suspense. The delay was due to a provision in the 1999 Constitution which states that the elected President has the power to issue the proclamation immediately after being sworn in.

President Obasanjo, a member of the ruling party PDP, wanted to choose the Senate President from the South East, but faced opposition. Eventually, Senator Evan Enwerem was chosen over Chuba Okadigbo.

Enwerem's tenure was marked by corruption allegations, leading to his removal in 1999. President Obasanjo's delay in signing the Proclamation highlighted the immense power vested in the Nigerian President by the Constitution, akin to a "blank cheque.".