Reps in Rowdy Session Over Immunity for Saraki, Dogara, Other Presiding Officers

Posted by African Examiner Featured, Latest Headlines, News Tuesday, July 12th, 2016

Ayodele Afolabi, Abuja

ABUJA, NIGERIA (AFRICAN EXAMINER) – Members of the House of Representatives on Tuesday went wild over a bill seeking to confer Immunity on the presiding Officers of the National Assembly (NASS).

The minority leaders of the House, Leo Ogor had introduced the bill seeking to alter the 1999 Constitution to confer immunity on the leadership of NASS.

As soon as he was about to read the short titled of the bill for it to be read for second time and pass second reading, the atmosphere became charged as many members were moving towards the Speaker.

The shout of “No”, “No”, rented the air and some members attempted to seize the maze, the symbol of authority of the House but for the vigilance of the Sergeant – At – Arms who held the maze.

The Speaker, Yakubu Dogara asked the Chairman, House Committee on Rules and Business Aker Jeff to read the House Rules regarding amendment of the Constitution.

Without taking cognizance of the mood of members and in a move considered as unprecedented, Dogara then hit the Gavel and directed the bill be referred to the House Committee on the Review of the Constitution headed by the Deputy Speaker, Yusuff Lasun.

The attempt to amend the Constitution to confer immunity on the House Leaders have been criticized by many Nigerians who see the move as self-serving and in bad faith.