By Abiola Olawale
The House of Representatives has made a dramatic U-turn on a highly debated bill that sought to remove immunity from prosecution for the offices of the Vice President, state governors, and their deputies in Nigeria.
The proposed legislation, which had earlier passed its second reading on March 26, 2025, was said to be aimed at amending Section 308 of the 1999 Constitution to enhance accountability and curb corruption among top public officials.
Sponsored by Rep. Solomon Bob of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from Rivers State, the bill initially garnered significant support as lawmakers argued it would ensure transparency and allow law enforcement to prosecute officials for misconduct while in office.
However, during a plenary session on Thursday, the House unexpectedly backtracked on the decision to advance the bill.
The lower legislative chamber made the u-turn after the Majority Leader of the House, Julius Ihonvbere, moved a motion.
The Green Chamber also rescinded its decision on the bill to abolish the death penalty.
Both bills passed a second reading during plenary on Wednesday.
