Tinubu, others dragged to court over Customs boss’ tenure extension

A human rights activist and social crusader, Dr Bolaji Akinyemi, has approached a Federal High Court sitting in Lagos to challenge the legality of the extension of the tenure of the Comptroller of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, by President Bola Tinubu.

The suit numbered FHC/L/CS/1495/2025, was brought pursuant to the Fundamental Rights (Enforcement Procedure) Rules, 2009, and relevant sections of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) and the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.

The suit named President Bola Tinubu, Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, Nigeria Customs Service, Nigeria Customs Service Governing Board, Office of the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs and Excise Services, and the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, as respondents.

Addressing journalists in Enugu on Tuesday, the claimant’s counsels, Newworth LLP (legal practitioners) said the originating summons challenged the purported extension or continued stay in office of the Customs Comptroller General, Adeniyi, beyond May 5, 2025, which marked the end of his statutory tenure.

According to the plaintiff’s counsels, the issues for determination are: “Whether the President has the constitutional or statutory authority under Section 14(1) of the Nigeria Customs Service Act (2023 as amended) to extend the tenure of Mr. Adeniyi after he proceeds on terminal leave.

“Whether Mr. Adeniyi can legally continue to act in the capacity of Comptroller General beyond his exit date without violating the rights and due process expectations of Nigerians, particularly Dr. Akinyemi, who claims this impinges on his right to life, dignity, and democratic governance.”

The suit is asking the court to declare that the Customs boss’ extension or continued stay in office is illegal and unconstitutional, as well as restraining orders barring both the President and Adeniyi from executing or accepting any such tenure extension.

The plaintiff’s counsel added, “This suit underscores a growing concern over the abuse of executive powers in the appointment and tenure elongation of key public office holders, often at the expense of the Constitution, institutional integrity, and the public interest.

“This is not just about one office holder—it is about preserving legality, transparency, and accountability in the governance of our nation. Customs is a vital institution, and illegality at the top compromises national security, economic stability, and citizens’ trust.”

Tinubu, others dragged to court over Customs boss’ tenure extension