Nigeria Reps Move to Strip VP, Governors of Immunity in New Bill

The House of Representatives has advanced a bill to strip the Vice President, governors, and deputy governors of immunity. Sponsored by PDP lawmaker Solomon Bob, the proposed amendment aims to enhance accountability. Supporters argue it deters corruption, while critics warn of politically motivated lawsuits. The bill now moves to committee review.

A constitutional amendment bill aimed at revoking immunity for Nigeria's Vice President, state governors, and their deputies has progressed to its second reading in the House of Representatives.

The bill, sponsored by Solomon Bob, a lawmaker from Rivers State under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), was debated during Wednesday’s plenary session. Bob argued that stripping these high-ranking officials of immunity would promote greater accountability in public office and deter corruption.

Currently, the Nigerian Constitution shields the President, Vice President, Governors, and Deputy Governors from legal prosecution while in office. Proponents of the bill believe this legal protection is often abused, allowing officials to evade scrutiny and avoid consequences for misconduct.

However, critics caution that removing immunity could lead to politically motivated lawsuits that distract leaders from governance. They argue that instead of eliminating immunity outright, reforms should focus on establishing stronger anti-corruption mechanisms without disrupting government functions.

The bill's advancement has sparked debate among legal experts, civil society organizations, and political analysts. Some have called for further public consultations before making a final decision.

With its passage through second reading, the proposed amendment will now move to the committee stage for further deliberations before potential approval by both chambers of the National Assembly.