Atiku challenges Tinubu's 21-day absence, cites constitutional power-transfer rule

Atiku Abubakar, the 2027 presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress, has accused President Bola Tinubu of violating the Constitution by failing to transfer power after more than three weeks abroad. In a statement titled, "Who is in charge of Nigeria?", Atiku pointed to Section 145, which requires the President to send a written declaration to the Senate President and the Speaker of the House whenever he goes on vacation, after which the Vice President becomes Acting President. Tinubu left Nigeria on August 30 for a three-week vacation in Europe. More than 21 days later, no such letter has been made public, and Vice President Kashim Shettima has not been seen performing presidential duties. Atiku warned that if the President does not transmit the declaration within 21 days, the National Assembly, by a simple majority in each house, can mandate the VP to act as President. The Presidency countered on September 21, saying Tinubu had extended his working vacation by a few days and would return to Nigeria at the weekend.

This silence raises questions about adherence to constitutional safeguards and who is actually steering government affairs while the President is away. For citizens, the issue touches on transparency, accountability, and the stability of executive authority during the leader's absence.

What should Nigerians expect - strict compliance with Section 145 and a clear acting-presidency arrangement, or acceptance of the Presidency's explanation of an extended working vacation? How might this affect public trust in the government's commitment to constitutional order?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/09/21/atiku-slams-tinubu-over-21-day-absence-from-nigeria/