The House of Representatives has made a significant U-turn on a controversial bill that sought to strip the Vice-President, governors, and their deputies of immunity from prosecution.
This change came after Majority Leader, Julius Ihonvbere, moved a motion on Thursday, reversing the earlier approval of the bill during its second reading on Wednesday.
The bill, introduced by Solomon Bob, a lawmaker from Rivers State, was initially passed in an effort to “promote accountability in public office” by removing immunity provisions under Section 308 of the Constitution.
Bob argued that the immunity granted to top government officials encourages corruption and impunity. He stated, “This move is to curb corruption, eliminate immunity, eradicate impunity, and enhance accountability in public office.”
Currently, Section 308 of the Constitution grants the president, vice-president, governors, and deputy governors immunity from civil or criminal proceedings while in office, including protection from arrest and imprisonment.
The House also reversed its stance on another bill seeking to abolish the death penalty, which had also passed its second reading on Wednesday.
As the bills are reconsidered, it remains to be seen whether the legislative body will ultimately pass reforms targeting the removal of immunity for high-ranking officials.