Dalung made these statements during an appearance on Daily Trust’s News Hour, expressing concern over Tinubu's prolonged absence from Nigeria since August 30.
He emphasized that the term “working vacation” is not recognized in the Constitution, which outlines clear procedures for presidential absence.
“The Constitution does not recognize ‘working vacation’ or ‘working leave’. The media cannot amend our Constitution with a press statement,” Dalung argued, insisting that the President has indeed breached constitutional obligations.
He pointed to Section 145, subsection 1, which mandates the President to transmit power before taking a vacation, stating that this rule applies regardless of the length of the leave. “Whether it’s a one-day or a five-minute vacation, a vacuum must not exist,” he asserted.
Dalung questioned the National Assembly's inaction, citing Section 145(2), which allows them to mandate the Vice President to act if the President fails to delegate power within 21 days of starting a leave.
“Why has the National Assembly not acted?” he asked, criticizing them for their silence on the matter.
The former minister also raised concerns about the lack of transparent communication regarding the President’s activities while abroad.
“Nigerians deserve to know where their President is and what he is doing,” he said, calling for accountability from the state media.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has defended Tinubu, asserting that there is no leadership vacuum, as the President is still managing the country’s affairs from abroad.
Dalung concluded his remarks by lamenting the current state of governance in Nigeria, labeling it “democratic anarchy” marked by impunity.
His comments have sparked renewed debate over the constitutional implications of the President’s absence and the responsibilities of the National Assembly.
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