The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Legislative Budget and Research, Timothy Golu, yesterday said the fear of defeat must have informed the decision by President Muhammadu Buhari not to assent the Electoral Amendment Bill into law.

In his reaction to the development, Golu expressed surprise at the President’s decision, noting: “We have done all that is required to ensure a free and fair election. My take is that he may not be comfortable going into the election if the Bill becomes operational.”

Golu, representing PDP in Plateau, hinted that the National Assembly might be forced to consider the next line of action when it reconvenes next week.

But the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) has called for restraint over the issue, saying the President must have valid reasons for his action.

Spokesperson of the party, Lanre Issa-Onilu, stated: “We do have a President that is very meticulous and when the President takes actions, he gives reasons. This time is not different. He has, from the report, I want to believe, that he has communicated with the National Assembly and I am in sure in his letter, he would state specific reasons why he declined assent and by the time you look at those reasons, you can only but agree that once again, the President has demonstrated leadership.”

Credit: Adamu Abuh, Guardian

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Electoral Amendment Bill Rejection: Buhari Afraid of Defeat, Says Rep. Timothy Golu