Aggrieved members of staff of the National Assembly (NASS) have petitioned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and asked him to veto the NASS Tenure Elongation Bill passed by the legislature.
The petitioners argued that the bill raised constitutional concerns and threatened transparency in the legislative process.
According to the legal adviser to the Foundation for Rights Enforcement Enlightenment and Defence, Akobo Teinye Tonbo Seddon, the bill’s provisions undermine fairness, equity, and justice. It sets a dangerous precedent and compromises the integrity of our democratic institutions.
The petitioners argue that the bill violates the clear provisions of the constitution that established the National Assembly and define the terms and conditions of service for its officials.
They emphasised that any changes to these terms and conditions require a constitutional amendment.
The aggrieved staff highlights that the bill may potentially violate several sections of the Nigerian Constitution, including those related to equality, discrimination, social justice, and freedom from forced labour.
They stressed that the bill favours existing employees over new entrants and perpetuates inequality and unfairness.
Furthermore, the staff argued that the bill violates the principles of separation of powers and checks and balances. They expressed concern that the legislative arm is encroaching on the powers of the executive arm and disregarding the role of the National Council of Establishment.
The petitioners also raised concerns about the self-serving nature of the bill, which they believe benefits the clerk of the National Assembly at the expense of the welfare and productivity of the staff and the general public.
In their plea to President Tinubu, the staff urged him to consider the long-term implications of signing the bill.
In the letter which was also sent to the Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), the petitioners further argued that 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’.”