News

Nigerian Lawmakers Told to Remove Immunity For President, Governors

Published

2 years ago

March 8, 2024

The Alliance For The Defence of Niger Delta (ADND) has urged the National Assembly to repeal the law which guaranteed immunity for president, vice president, governor and his deputy from prosecution.

ADND made the call in a statement by its leaders Johnson Mba-Ngei and Sobomabo Ikriko on Friday in Abuja.

The NGO said the immunity clause has been a barrier to holding state governors accountable for misconduct and mismanagement of public resources.

“By eliminating this clause, governors will be subject to scrutiny and legal action, thereby promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance at the state level”.

It also conversed for urgent constitutional amendments to empower traditional rulers and ensure greater accountability among state governors in Nigeria.

The call was in response to the pressing need to address Nigeria’s security challenges and enhance governance accountability, as highlighted in a recent article titled “Mohammed Ndarani Mohammed SAN Advocates Empowering Traditional Rulers: A Solution to Nigeria’s Security Challenges and Governance Accountability.”

“The article underscores the insights that traditional rulers are deeply rooted in their communities and possess unique knowledge and influence that can significantly contribute to maintaining peace and order at the grassroots level”.

ADND emphasised the need for specific amendments to facilitate the active engagement of traditional rulers in the security affairs of their domains.

“Strengthening the role of traditional institutions in collaboration with law enforcement agencies is essential for effective community policing and the protection of lives and property in the Niger Delta region and beyond.

“By empowering traditional rulers and ensuring accountability among state governors, we can collectively address Nigeria’s security challenges and foster a more transparent and responsive governance system for the benefit of all Nigerians.

It urges all stakeholders, including lawmakers, government officials, civil society organizations, and the general public, to support these constitutional amendments.

NAN reports that the immunity clause in Section 308 of the 1999 Constitution, provides a shield for the President, Vice President, Governor or Deputy Governor from frivolous litigation in respect of personal or criminal proceedings that would distract him from the business of governance.

NAN reports that in 2020, the House of Representatives began moves towards ensuring that the presiding officers of the Senate, House of Representatives as well as those of the state Houses of Assembly enjoy immunity while in office like the President, Vice President, Governors and Deputy Governors. It introduced a bill titled: ‘Bill for an Act to Alter Section 308 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to extend Immunity to cover Presiding Officers of Legislative Institutions; and for Related Matters’.

The bill sponsored by Rep. Olusegun Odebunmi (APC-Oyo), passed second reading but not without some reservations by some members of the Green Chamber as well as a cross-section of the society.

The Bill seeks an amendment to Section 308 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, to extend such immunity to presiding officers of the National Assembly. This includes the Senate President, Deputy Senate President, Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives and Speaker and Deputy Speaker in the 36 state Houses of Assembly.

Section 308 of the 1999 Constitution as amended, has in crystal clear terms, outlawed legal proceedings against the President and Vice-President of Nigeria and the Governors and Deputy Governors, respectively, of the various States.

News

YULETIDE: UBTH CMD Charges Nigerians To Be Hopeful In Coming Year

Published

3 hours ago

December 25, 2025

Editor

The Chief Medical Director of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Prof. Idia Ize-Iyamu has urged Nigerians to remain optimistic about the upcoming year, despite current challenges.

Prof. Ize-Iyamu expressed optimism that the coming year would bring improvements for everyone.

The CMD made these remarks during the Nine Lessons and Carol night /End of Year Party organized by UBTH for staff and students held in Benin.

Prof. Ize-Iyamu encouraged everyone to place their trust solely in Christ to overcome the numerous challenges facing the country.

She expressed her gratitude to the hospital community for their support during her first four months in office.

Prof. Ize-Iyamu assured them that the coming years hold many opportunities and that hope in Christ would transform lives daily, just as Christ’s birth brings joy and is the reason for the season.

She also extended her appreciation to everyone in the spirit of the season.

“I want to appreciate everyone in the spirit of the season. Our commitment to excellence and professionalism remains at UBTH.

“UBTH CARES and just like Christ cares. As we celebrate Christ and the season. Let’s hope on him. When you have Christ, you have hope.We are hopeful that the coming year will be better as a people and institution,” Ize-Iyamu said.

The ceremony’s highlight featured a visit to the hospital wards where the CMD distributed gifts to patients and newborns, with management, staff, and students in attendance.

News

Christmas: Edo Deputy Gov Preaches Unity, Hope

Published

3 hours ago

December 25, 2025

Editor

The Deputy Governor of Edo State, Hon. Dennis Idahosa has called on residents of the state to embrace unity, love, and renewed hope as Christians celebrate Christmas.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Friday Aghedo, Idahosa emphasised that Christmas represents values that unite people, regardless of tribe, religion, or politics, promoting compassion, generosity, and peace.

He described the birth of Jesus Christ as a timeless reminder of the values of peace, sacrifice, and compassion, which he said are critical to societal growth and harmonious coexistence.

He urged Edo people to take advantage of the festive season to strengthen communal ties, extend goodwill to the less privileged, and recommit themselves to the collective development of the state.

The deputy governor further said that Christmas underscores the importance of shared humanity and collective responsibility in building a prosperous society.

“Christmas is a season that reminds us of the power of hope and shared humanity.

“As a people, we must continue to stand together, support one another, and work collectively for a more prosperous Edo State,” Idahosa said.

He reassured residents of the state of the firm commitment of the Governor Monday Okpebholo-led administration to enthrone good governance, inclusive development, and people-oriented policies aimed at improving the welfare and well-being of all Edo citizens.

Idahosa also appealed to residents to celebrate the season responsibly and sustain peace and harmony before, during, and after the festivities.

He wished Christians a joyous Christmas celebration and prayed for a peaceful, progressive, and prosperous Edo State.

News

YULETIDE: Edo Sports Commission Boss Preaches Unity, Peace

Published

14 hours ago

December 25, 2025

Editor

The Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, has extended warm Christmas greetings to athletes, coaches, sports administrators, journalists, and the people of Edo State, urging them to uphold the enduring values of love, peace, and unity that define the festive season.

In a statement issued by his Media Officer, Edoko Wilson Edoko, Hon. Enabulele described Christmas as a period of reflection, gratitude, and renewed commitment to collective progress and shared responsibility.

“I sincerely appreciate all stakeholders in the sports sector for their cooperation, resilience, and unwavering support throughout the year. Your contributions have been instrumental to the growth and success of sports in Edo State,” he said.

He further commended Edo athletes for their dedication and discipline, noting that their consistent performances have continued to bring pride and recognition to the state at both national and international levels.

According to him, the Commission remains committed to athletes’ welfare, grassroots sports development, and the creation of opportunities that will enable talents to flourish.

Enabulele also called on residents of the state to celebrate responsibly and show compassion to one another, particularly the less privileged, emphasizing that unity and peaceful coexistence are vital for sustainable development.

He reaffirmed the Edo State Sports Commission’s resolve to strengthen collaboration with partners and stakeholders in the coming year, with increased focus on excellence, transparency, and inclusive sports development.

The Sports Commission boss concluded by wishing everyone a joyous Christmas celebration and a prosperous New Year filled with hope, good health, and greater achievements.