Vice-President of Nigeria in charge
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A Nigerian federal court has ruled that Vice-President Goodluck Jonathan can perform the executive duties of President Umaru Yar'Adua, who is in hospital in Saudi Arabia, without a formal transfer of power.
"The court verdict has now empowered the Vice-President to start assuming the powers of an acting president," attorney-general Michael Aondoakaa said after the ruling.
Transferring power from Mr Yar'Adua, a Muslim northerner, to Mr Jonathan, from the Christian south, is sensitive in a country where rival groups have maintained a careful balance since the return of civilian rule in 1999. Mr Jonathan has already been representing Mr Yar'Adua at cabinet meetings and official functions.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments