Former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Prof. Isa Ali Pantami, has advocated for the removal of immunity clauses for political office holders in Nigeria. Speaking during an annual state lecture organized by The Muslim Congress (TMC) on Sunday, Pantami argued that immunity for leaders is not supported by Islamic law.
Pantami emphasized that the current immunity granted to the President, Vice President, Governors, and their Deputies under Section 308 of the 1999 Constitution hinders transparency and accountability in governance. He further noted that, in Islam, there is no such provision, and leaders are equally subject to the law.
“In Islam, there is no immunity. Immunity may offer privileges while in office, but once out of office, leaders often face numerous charges. This delay only allows more problems to accumulate,” Pantami stated. He referenced historical Islamic leaders like Ali ibn Abi Talib and Umar ibn Khatab, who, despite their high positions, were held accountable and dragged to court when necessary, underscoring the importance of equality before the law.
