Northern Youth Council Criticizes Tinubu Over Alleged Refusal to Transfer Power During Absence
The Northern Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has expressed strong disapproval of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s alleged decision not to transfer power to Vice President Kashim Shettima during his recent absence from the country, calling it a “flagrant violation” of the Nigerian Constitution.
In a statement signed by the Council’s National President, Isah Abubakar, the group described the President’s action as a breach of democratic norms and an affront to constitutional governance.
“This act is not only an aberration of established democratic norms but also a flagrant violation of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” Abubakar said.
He emphasized that the Constitution provides clear protocols regarding succession and the transfer of power in situations where the President is incapacitated or unavailable.
“By failing to adhere to these constitutional provisions, President Tinubu undermines the very foundation of our democratic system and sets a troubling precedent for governance in Nigeria,” the statement read.
The group also argued that the President’s actions could deepen regional discontent, particularly in Northern Nigeria.
“This refusal also exacerbates the existing sentiments of alienation felt by the people of Northern Nigeria toward the current administration. It is increasingly apparent that such actions reflect a disdain for the Northern populace, raising questions about the inclusivity and fairness of the Tinubu administration,” the Council stated.
The NYCN drew comparisons to past administrations, citing examples of constitutional compliance.
“Historically, precedent has shown that leaders who prioritized constitutional adherence and national unity have conveyed respect for democratic values and the citizenry. For instance, former President Goodluck Jonathan transferred power to then Vice President Namadi Sambo when he traveled abroad for medical reasons,” Abubakar recalled.
He also referenced the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua’s decision to transfer authority to then Vice President Jonathan in 2010 despite his ill health, describing it as “an illustration of respect for the office and the people he served, promoting stability during uncertain times.”
“In stark contrast, President Tinubu’s refusal to empower Vice President Shettima reflects a worrying trend towards centralization of authority and exclusion of key constitutional roles,” the group said. “This behaviour not only undermines the Vice President’s position but poses a threat to the democratic framework that binds our diverse nation together.”
The Council called on Nigerians to unite in defense of the Constitution, urging the President to demonstrate his commitment to democratic principles.
“We must collectively demand accountability and respect for our constitutional rights,” Abubakar declared. “The Northern Youth Council implores all Nigerians—regardless of regional affiliations—to acknowledge the gravity of this situation and to join us in urging President Tinubu to adhere to the principles of democracy.”
“To protect our nation, our leaders must be champions of the Constitution, ensuring every citizen feels equally represented and valued,” the statement concluded. “It is time for President Tinubu to reaffirm his commitment to the principles of democracy by immediately transferring power to Vice President Shettima whenever necessary and respecting the sanctity of our governance structures.”