House of Reps Passes Bill to Remove Immunity for Vice President, Governors

The Nigerian House of Representatives has passed a bill that seeks to remove the constitutional immunity currently enjoyed by the Vice President, state governors, and their deputies. The bill, which passed its second reading, is part of a broader effort to amend the 1999 Constitution.

If enacted, the proposed amendment would allow the prosecution of these officeholders for civil and criminal offences while in office. Supporters of the bill argue that the immunity clause has been exploited, enabling some officials to evade justice and engage in corrupt activities. They contend that removing the immunity would help combat corruption, reduce impunity, and promote accountability in public office.

The bill is one of 42 constitutional amendments that advanced through the second reading stage on Wednesday. This follows the passage of 39 other bills the day before, bringing the total number of amendments under consideration to 81.

Among the other proposed changes are plans to separate the roles of Attorney General and Minister of Justice, grant citizenship rights to spouses of Nigerian women, and create new states, including Ijebu, Ife-Ijesa, Tiga, Orlu, and Etiti.

The constitutional amendments will now proceed to the next legislative stages. If approved by the National Assembly, they will require ratification by two-thirds of Nigeria’s state assemblies before becoming law.