Reps rescind decision on bill to strip VP, governors of immunity
The House of Representatives has rescinded its decision on the second reading of a bill seeking to strip the vice president, governors, and their deputies of immunity. The reversal comes just a day after the bill initially cleared its second reading.
The motion to rescind the decision was moved on Thursday by Julius Ihonvbere, the majority leader of the House, signaling a shift in legislative stance.
The bill, originally sponsored by Solomon Bob, a lawmaker from Rivers State representing the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), aimed to enhance accountability in public office. It proposed removing the constitutional immunity that shields the vice president, governors, and their deputies from civil or criminal proceedings while in office.
Under Section 308 of the Nigerian Constitution, these high-ranking officials are currently protected from lawsuits, arrests, and imprisonment during their tenure. The bill sought to eliminate these privileges, ensuring public officials could be held accountable while still in office.
