Immunity clause fuels corruption in Nigeria, Anambra-Based Traditionalist, Dr. Ramas
Prophet Dr. Ramas Okoye-Asuzu
A renowned traditionalist and International President of the Foundation for World Peace and Cultural Re-orientation, Prophet Dr. Ramas Okoye-Asuzu, has called for the removal of the constitutional immunity clause that protects sitting presidents and governors in Nigeria.
He argues that this provision fosters corruption and undermines accountability in governance.
In his address commemorating his 68th birthday, Dr. Ramas stated that the immunity clause has been serially abused by individuals in high office, who, emboldened by their legal protection, perpetrate various acts of corruption and lawlessness with impunity.
According to him, the clause gives politicians a false sense of invincibility and places them above the law.
“The political class hides under the shield of constitutional immunity to recklessly violate laws, knowing full well that they cannot be held accountable while in office,”
“This provision has become a license for corruption, and its revocation is necessary to check the excesses of those who exploit it to the detriment of ordinary Nigerians.”he said.
Dr. Ramas emphasized the need for the immunity clause to be abolished in order to restore accountability, justice, and the rule of law in Nigeria.
He also stated that true democracy must be rooted in respect for the constitutional principle of separation of powers.
According to him, the three arms of government ,the Executive, the Legislature, and the Judiciary must function independently and act as checks and balances to one another.
He warned that the undue influence of the Executive over the other arms of government undermines this balance.
“The constitutionally enshrined separation of powers was designed to prevent the misuse of state resources by the Executive. Unfortunately, the Executive arm continues to compromise the Legislature and Judiciary through excessive patronage, turning them into willing tools of manipulation,” he said.
Dr. Ramas also expressed deep concern over the state of insecurity ravaging the country, calling on all levels of government to urgently address the growing threat before the situation worsens further.
He described the current wave of violence and impunity by armed bandits as alarming and disturbing, lamenting the inability of the nation’s security forces to respond effectively due to poor equipment and lack of modern training.
“Our armed forces must be trained in contemporary methods of combating insecurity. This is the 21st century; they need to be reformed and equipped with the tools necessary for modern warfare,” “Part of this reform must include purging the police force of bad elements who have contributed to making the country a living hell for many.”he stated.
Dr. Ramas’s remarks reflect a growing public sentiment in Nigeria a demand for greater accountability, institutional reform, and a more secure and just society.
