The move comes amid widespread reactions following the initial passage of the bills during Wednesday’s plenary, where lawmakers had considered and advanced 42 proposed amendments to the 1999 Constitution. One of the bills, sponsored by Rep. Solomon Bob (PDP, Rivers), sought to amend Section 308 of the Constitution to remove immunity protections for vice presidents, governors, and their deputies.
Abuja, Nigeria – The House of Representatives has withdrawn its earlier approval of two constitutional amendment bills, one seeking to strip the vice president, governors, and deputy governors of immunity and another proposing a review of capital punishment laws.
During plenary on Thursday, House Leader Prof. Julius Ihonvbere moved a motion to rescind the second reading passage of the bills, citing the need for more extensive debate due to their sensitive nature. Deputy Speaker Benjamin Okezie Kalu, who presided over the session, emphasized the importance of thorough deliberation before any legislative decisions are made.
The move comes amid widespread reactions following the initial passage of the bills during Wednesday’s plenary, where lawmakers had considered and advanced 42 proposed amendments to the 1999 Constitution. One of the bills, sponsored by Rep. Solomon Bob (PDP, Rivers), sought to amend Section 308 of the Constitution to remove immunity protections for vice presidents, governors, and their deputies. The legislation aimed to promote transparency, curb corruption, and ensure greater accountability in governance.
Similarly, another bill co-sponsored by Deputy Speaker Kalu and six others proposed a review of penalties for capital offenses to align with international best practices. This bill, designated as HB. 2120, was also rescinded to allow for further discussions.
With these decisions, the House aims to provide lawmakers an opportunity to engage in a more comprehensive debate before determining the final fate of the proposed amendments.
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