Rivers Rep Explains Why He’s Advocating For The Removal Of Immunity For Political Leaders

Rivers Rep Explains Why He’s Advocating For The Removal Of Immunity For Political LeadersSolomon Bob, the lawmaker representing Ahoada East/Abua/Odual Federal Constituency of Rivers State in the House of Representatives, speaks with Dirisu Yakubu on his push to remove immunity for the vice president, governors, and deputy governors.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

On the Immunity Clause and its Purpose:

The immunity clause was included in Nigeria’s constitution to allow the president and other beneficiaries to focus on governance without being distracted by legal actions. However, Rep. Bob questions the necessity of this provision, pointing to its impact on impunity and corruption.

He argues, “Nigeria is not as litigious as America. The most litigious society in the world is America. So why has that argument not held water there? Why haven’t American governors and presidents been distracted by lawsuits? The argument that immunity is needed to avoid distractions is spurious. The reality is, we face untold levels of impunity, corruption, and lawlessness because of this absolute immunity.”

Bob further suggests that if public officeholders engage in actions that could lead them to court, it’s their responsibility. “If a person’s actions warrant legal action, they have no one to blame but themselves. Courts are not naive; they know when an action is frivolous and will dismiss it if necessary.”

On the Likely Outcome of the Bill:

Rep. Bob admits he’s not overly optimistic about the bill’s passage due to the resistance it might face from powerful interests. “Some colleagues have described the bill as fantastic, but they fear it won’t get support from governors. But that’s not our concern. Our job is to pass the bill, and then it will be up to the governors to explain to Nigerians why they obstruct a reform that has widespread support. If we fail to pass it, how can we blame others for not taking action?”

He stresses that the bill aims to create a less corrupt, less lawless society. “We need to shift away from the idea that we should wait until leaders leave office to hold them accountable. If people know they can be pursued for misconduct while in office, they will be more cautious. It’s counterproductive to think that accountability should only come after they finish their terms.”

On Support from Colleagues, Particularly in the President’s Party:

When asked about support for the bill within his own party, Bob clarifies, “I’m not proposing the total removal of the president’s immunity. I’m suggesting that it be limited. The immunity should only cover matters related to the president’s official functions as prescribed in the constitution. The same should apply to a vice president who acts as president—he should have immunity for actions consistent with his role. However, the vice president, governors, and deputy governors do not need immunity, as they are not performing the same constitutional duties.”

Bob further explains that immunity for these political officeholders is unnecessary, emphasizing, “We need to rethink what we allow. We should not have provisions that protect individuals from accountability when they don’t need it. We need to build a system that ensures people are held accountable for their actions, whether they’re in office or not.”

Through this bill, Rep. Bob hopes to promote a more disciplined, responsible, and transparent leadership structure in Nigeria.

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