Presidency Defends Tinubu's Executive Order 9 as Constitutional

The Nigerian Presidency has affirmed the constitutionality of Executive Order 9, which was signed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. This order is designed to protect federal oil and gas revenue and provide regulatory clarity amid criticisms that it overreaches executive power.

The Presidency clarified that the order aligns with the 1999 Constitution, specifically referencing Section 80(1), which mandates that revenue collected by the federal government must be paid into the Consolidated Revenue Fund. The order is intended to enhance transparency in the management of petroleum revenue, ensuring that funds are properly accounted for and distributed according to constitutional provisions.

It does not intrude on the legislative authority of the National Assembly or amend existing laws, including the Petroleum Industry Act. The Presidency emphasized that any disputes regarding the order's legality should be resolved in court, reinforcing the executive's duty to protect federal revenue and uphold constitutional supremacy.