Nigerian lawmakers move to strip VP, governors, deputies of constitutional immunity
A bill seeking to strip Nigeria’s vice president, governors, and deputy governors of their constitutional immunity has successfully passed its second reading in the House of Representatives.
This legislative move is part of a broader effort to amend Section 308 of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, which currently provides immunity from prosecution for these office holders while they are in office.
Legislative Details
The bill was sponsored by Solomon Bob, a lawmaker representing Rivers State. During a plenary session presided over by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, this bill was one among 42 others that were considered and passed through the second reading stage on March 26, 2025.
The primary aim of this proposed amendment is to enhance accountability in public office and curb corruption by removing the immunity currently enjoyed by the vice president, governors, and their deputies while retaining it for the president only.
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The long title of the proposed legislation reads: “A Bill for an Act to alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to qualify the immunity conferred on the President, remove the immunity conferred on the Vice President, Governors and their deputies, in order to curb corruption, eradicate impunity and enhance accountability in public office and for Related Matters.”
Rationale Behind the Bill
Proponents argue that removing this immunity will promote greater accountability among public officials. They believe that if these leaders know they can be prosecuted while in office, they will act more responsibly and ethically. Solomon Bob emphasized that waiting until these officials leave office to hold them accountable is counterproductive; immediate accountability could lead to a less corrupt society.
Opposition to the Bill
Despite its passage through second reading, there has been significant opposition from various state governments and legal experts. Critics argue that removing immunity could lead to politically motivated lawsuits against elected officials.
For instance, Oyo State’s Commissioner for Justice expressed concerns that such a move might distract governors from their duties and hinder developmental projects across states.
Legal experts have also pointed out that if immunity is removed only for certain officials (vice presidents and governors), it raises questions about fairness—why not include the president as well?
Following its successful second reading, this bill will now be forwarded to the House Committee on Constitutional Review for further legislative action. If it passes through subsequent readings and approvals within both chambers of Nigeria’s National Assembly, it could significantly alter how public officials are held accountable under Nigerian law.
