Reps reject bill, preserve immunity for politicians

By Evi Abinama

In a stunning U-turn, the House of Representatives has withdrawn support for the bill removing immunity from top officials.

Diaspora digital media (DDM) revealed that the bill initially aimed to amend Section 308 of the 1999 Constitution, sparing only the President from legal immunity.

It sought to make the Vice President, governors, and their deputies answerable to the law while still in office.

Hon. Solomon Bob, the bill’s sponsor, argued it would promote accountability and deter corruption at the highest levels.

During Wednesday’s plenary, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu presided as the bill passed its second reading and was forwarded for review.

Lawmakers had seemed united in support, signaling a rare moment of political courage and transparency in Nigeria’s democratic history.

However, just a day later, Thursday’s session saw Majority Leader Julius Ihonvbere move a motion to reverse the decision.

His motion triggered debate, and eventually, lawmakers agreed to halt the bill’s progress, stunning observers across the country.

The reversal has raised serious questions about the House’s commitment to fighting corruption and promoting good governance.

Many citizens now suspect behind-the-scenes deals and political pressure may have influenced the lawmakers’ sudden change of heart.

Critics argue that the House has once again prioritized self-preservation over national interest and constitutional reform.

The bill’s shelving is seen by some as a betrayal of public trust and democratic ideals in the country.

Civil society groups are already calling for protests and renewed pressure to revive the bill and hold lawmakers accountable.

For now, the bill remains stalled, and there’s no clear indication whether it will be revisited in future sessions.

The public awaits transparency on what influenced the dramatic U-turn just 24 hours after widespread approval.

Analysts warn this could deepen cynicism toward legislative processes and further erode faith in democratic institutions.

Whether the bill resurfaces or not, this episode has left a controversial stain on Nigeria’s legislative credibility.

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