The House of Representatives has rescinded its approval of a bill seeking to strip the vice president, governors, and their deputies of constitutional immunity.
This reversal came after Majority Leader Julius Ihonvbere moved a motion during Thursday’s plenary session.
The bill, sponsored by Solomon Bob, a People’s Democratic Party (PDP) lawmaker from Rivers State, had passed its second reading on Wednesday.
It aimed to amend Section 308 of the Nigerian Constitution, which grants immunity to these public officials from civil or criminal prosecution while in office. The section also prevents their arrest, imprisonment, or any legal process compelling their appearance in court.
Bob had argued that removing immunity would foster transparency, reduce corruption, and enhance accountability in governance.
He stressed that the privilege had been misused over the years, shielding some leaders from facing justice for alleged misconduct.
However, just a day after advancing the Immunity bill, the House reversed its decision, signaling a need for further review and debate.
Also, the House also withdrew its approval of another bill aimed at abolishing the death penalty in Nigeria.
Like the immunity removal bill, this legislation had passed its second reading on Wednesday but was recalled for further deliberation.
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cc: Daily Post Ng
