Tinubu withholds assent to NDLEA Amendment Bill over proceeds-of-crime clause

President Bola Tinubu has declined to sign the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Amendment Bill, 2025, stating it conflicts with Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution regarding the handling of proceeds from criminal activity.

✔️ Constitutional grounds:

Citing Section 58(4) of the Constitution, Tinubu noted that the bill’s key provision, granting the NDLEA direct access to a portion of funds seized during drug operations, is inconsistent with existing financial structures . Under current law, all proceeds of crime must be deposited into a central Confiscated and Forfeited Properties Account, and any disbursement to agencies like the NDLEA must be authorized by the President, Federal Executive Council, and National Assembly.

✔️ Transparency and oversight:

Tinubu emphasized that maintaining centralized control ensures accountability. He stated that allowing NDLEA to automatically keep proceeds would undermine executive and legislative supervision .

✔️ Legislative response:

The bill was read and its veto explained by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas during plenary in the House of Representatives on Thursday.

Why this matters:

Operational funding vs. accountability: The NDLEA argued it needs automatic access to seized assets to enhance its drug-fighting capabilities. The President’s stance, however, prioritizes institutional checks and balances.

Legal precedent: This marks another instance in June 2025 where Tinubu has used his veto power, the second in less than a week, signaling a cautious approach to legislative changes .

Possible legislative bounce-back: The National Assembly could revisit and amend the bill to address constitutional issues, potentially reintroducing a compliant version.