Gbenga Daniel, senator representing Ogun East, has called for constitutional reforms to restrict immunity from prosecution solely to the president and vice-president.
![](https://thenigerialawyer.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/TheNigerialawyer-WhatsApp-Channel1.jpg")
Section 308 of the 1999 Constitution currently grants immunity to the president, vice-president, state governors, and their deputies. However, speaking on Political Paradigm, a programme aired on Channels Television on Tuesday, Daniel argued that while the immunity clause has its merits, it has been largely abused, particularly by some state governors.
“Immunity has its good sides, but to a large extent, some elected governors appear to have abused it,” the former Ogun State governor said. “Some have virtually turned their states into personal fiefdoms, treating state resources as private property without recourse to the house of assembly.”
Daniel maintained that absolute immunity should be reserved for the country’s two highest offices to protect the dignity of the presidency and enable its occupants to govern without unnecessary distractions.
“I think that only the president and the vice-president should be allowed to have absolute immunity, so they can concentrate on governance and so that no one will embarrass the symbol of the country,” he said.
He further suggested that the immunity currently enjoyed by governors and their deputies should be redefined — shielding them from criminal prosecution but allowing for accountability in other areas of governance.
“The governors and their deputies should have their immunity clarified. Probably, yes, they can have immunity from criminal prosecution, but there are other aspects where they should be held accountable while in office,” he added.
Reflecting on the 1999 Constitution, Daniel described it as a product of intelligent and patriotic efforts, despite its military-era origins.
“That constitution was crafted by the best of civilian brains who just happened to have worked with the military. That doesn’t take away from their intelligence or sense of patriotism,” he noted.
However, Daniel acknowledged the need for constitutional amendments in light of Nigeria’s contemporary challenges.
“I do not agree that the constitution is entirely bad. To that extent, we should examine a few areas, based on our current experiences, and consider necessary amendments,” he concluded.
The promotion, which commenced on January 8 and runs until February 8, 2026, offers five core maritime law books authored by Dr. Emeka Akabogu, SAN, ordinarily valued at N405,000, for just N150,000 — a 63% discount.
Interested buyers can place their orders through the following channels:
Phone: 0704 329 3271
Online Store: https://paystack.shop/aa-bookstore
Website: www.akabogulaw.com
_______________________________________________________________________
The Law And Practice Of Redundancy In Nigeria: A Practitioner’s Guide, Authored By A Labour & Employment Law Expert Bimbo Atilola
_______________________________________________________________________
[A MUST HAVE] Evidence Act Demystified With Recent And Contemporary Cases And Materials
Available now for NGN 40,000 at ASC Publications, 10, Boyle Street, Onikan, Lagos. Beside High Court, TBS. Email publications@ayindesanni.com or WhatsApp +2347056667384. Purchase Link: https://paystack.com/buy/evidence-act-complete-annotation
______________________________________________________________________
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE FOR LAWYERS: A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE
Reimagine your practice with the power of AI “...this is the only Nigerian book I know of on the topic.” — Ohio Books Ltd
Authored by Ben Ijeoma Adigwe, Esq., ACIArb (UK), LL.M, Dip. in Artificial Intelligence, Director, Delta State Ministry of Justice, Asaba, Nigeria.
Bonus:
Get a FREE eBook titled “How to Use the AI in Legalpedia and Law Pavilion” with every purchase.
How to Order: 📞 Call, Text, or WhatsApp: 08034917063 | 07055285878 📧 Email: benadigwe1@gmail.com 🌐 Website: www.benadigwe.com
Ebook Version: Access directly online at: https://selar.com/prv626
