Lawyers Question Tinubu's 'Working Vacation' Legality

Senior lawyers have criticized President Bola Tinubu's extended foreign trip, which the Presidency termed a "working vacation." This trip began on August 30 and was initially described as a three-week vacation in Europe, but was extended, with Tinubu expected to return on September 30. Legal experts, including Senior Advocate of Nigeria Mike Ahamba, argue that the term "working vacation" lacks recognition in the 1999 Constitution.

Ahamba stated that the President is either working or on vacation, emphasizing that the current administration often seeks to obscure constitutional responsibilities. Another lawyer, Oladele Joseph, highlighted that Section 145 of the Constitution mandates the President to transmit a written declaration to the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives when proceeding on vacation.

Joseph noted that while the President can communicate from abroad, the constitutional procedure must be followed. Abdul Balogun also reiterated the importance of adhering to Section 145 regarding the President's absence.