Tinubu Rejects 2025 NDLEA Bill Over Crime-Proceeds Clause

President Bola Tinubu has refused to assent to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Bill, 2025, despite its passage by both chambers of the National Assembly.

The President’s decision was announced in a letter read aloud during Thursday’s plenary session in the House of Representatives. Citing Section 58(4) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), Tinubu objected to a key provision in the bill that would allow the NDLEA to retain a portion of the proceeds from drug-related crimes.

He argued that the proposal violates established financial protocols, noting that under current law, all confiscated and forfeited assets must be paid into the government’s central Confiscated and Forfeited Properties Account. Funds can only be disbursed to recovery agencies, including the NDLEA, with presidential approval and the consent of the Federal Executive Council and National Assembly.

Tinubu emphasized that the existing system ensures transparency and oversight, and said there was no justification for amending a process designed to maintain financial accountability.