The Nigerian House of Representatives has taken a significant step toward enhancing accountability in public office with the passage of a bill aimed at removing the immunity currently enjoyed by the Vice President, Governors, and their deputies.
The bill, which aims to curb corruption, eradicate impunity, and promote transparency, passed its second reading on Wednesday.
This bill is part of a broader package of constitutional amendments, with 42 bills moving forward after their second reading.
A total of 81 bills have now been passed through this stage after the previous day’s reading of 39 bills.
The key proposal, “A Bill for an Act to alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999,” seeks to qualify the immunity granted to the President and remove it for other high-ranking officials, including the Vice President and Governors.
The bill’s primary objective is to combat corruption and ensure greater accountability.
Other notable amendments include proposals to separate the offices of the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice and granting citizenship rights to spouses of Nigerian women.
New state creation bills, such as for Ijebu, Ife-Ijesa, and Etiti States, were also included in the batch.
“The bill is a necessary step towards ensuring that all public office holders are held accountable for their actions,” said a lawmaker who supported the bill.
The legislature’s move signals a firm commitment to addressing concerns of corruption and governance in the country, but the proposed changes have yet to face further debates and deliberations.