House of Representatives Reverses Decision on Immunity Withdrawal Bill Amidst Criticism –

The House of Representatives has come under fire for reversing its earlier decision to remove immunity for the Vice President, Governors, and Deputy Governors. The bill, which aimed to curb corruption and enhance public accountability, was initially passed for a second reading but was later relisted for further debate.Civil Society Organizations ReactCivil society organizations, including the Centre for Accountability and Open Leadership and the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre, have condemned the move. Debo Adeniran, Chairman of the Centre for Accountability and Open Leadership, argued that the bill was flawed because it singled out the Vice President and Deputy Governors for immunity removal. Adeniran emphasized that immunity provisions allow individuals to commit crimes without facing immediate legal consequences and that removing it should apply to all officeholders, not just deputies ¹.Lawmakers’ PerspectiveA member of the People’s Democratic Party expressed doubts about the bill’s success, stating that the President is unlikely to sign it into law. The lawmaker noted that leaders cherish power and the immunity that comes with it.House Spokesman Explains ReversalHouse spokesman Akin Rotimi explained that the reversal was to allow for more extensive deliberation on the bill. Rotimi emphasized that the bill remains under consideration and will be revisited at a later date. The decision to reintroduce the bill for debate aligns with House Standing Orders and ensures comprehensive discussion before further legislative action