A bill seeking immunity from prosecution for serving members of both states and federal legislature has passed a second reading at the House of Representatives.
The
bill sponsored by Representative Odebunmi Olusegun, seeks to alter Section 308
of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999.
It was supported by majority of the lawmakers, who insisted that it is
important to safeguard the sanctity of the National Assembly.
Other
lawmakers who opposed the bill said it is coming at a time of increased violent
attacks across the country, and when there are calls for the withdrawal of
immunity from governors.
Commenting on the controversial bill, Speaker of the House of Representatives,
Femi Gbajabiamila said he will only support the bill if it is proposed to take
effect from 2023.
The
bill which lawmakers are expected to push out to Nigerians for public hearing,
will translate into an Act to alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of
Nigeria as immunity only covers the President, Vice President, Governors and
their Deputies.