Tinubu Withholds Assent to NDLEA Bill Over Controversial Crime Proceeds Clausep
Tinubu Withholds Assent to NDLEA Bill Over Controversial Crime Proceeds Clause
President Bola Tinubu has declined to sign the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Bill, 2025, into law, citing concerns over a provision that conflicts with established financial regulations.
The President’s decision was communicated through a formal letter read aloud during Thursday’s plenary session in the House of Representatives. Invoking Section 58(4) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), Tinubu explained that the proposed legislation contains a clause that would allow the NDLEA to retain a portion of proceeds recovered from drug-related crimes. According to him, this provision directly contradicts the existing financial framework governing the management of recovered assets.
President Tinubu emphasized that, under current laws, all proceeds of crime must be deposited into the government’s Confiscated and Forfeited Properties Account. Disbursements from this account to any agency involved in recovery efforts, including the NDLEA, can only be made through presidential approval, with the further endorsement of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) and the National Assembly.
He warned that bypassing this established process could undermine transparency and accountability in the management of recovered assets. “There is no compelling justification to deviate from a system designed to ensure strong executive and legislative oversight,” Tinubu stated.
The President’s decision signals a commitment to upholding fiscal discipline and ensuring that the administration of justice remains transparent, particularly in matters involving significant financial recoveries. It also underscores the importance of aligning proposed laws with existing regulatory and constitutional frameworks.
