Impossible to Impeach Presidents Under 1999 Constitution, Says Dogara

Former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, has stated that the 1999 Constitution effectively prevents the impeachment of a sitting president, advocating for a shift to a parliamentary system of government in Nigeria.

Speaking on Monday at a national dialogue organized by lawmakers advocating for the transition, Dogara, a lawyer, argued that the impeachment process in the 1999 Constitution creates insurmountable obstacles to removing a president, regardless of any alleged offenses.

A group of 60 lawmakers recently sponsored a bill aimed at abolishing the presidency and establishing a prime minister-led parliamentary system.

Dogara, supporting the bill, criticized Nigeria’s adoption of the U.S.-style presidential system, suggesting it overlooks key differences between the two countries.

“In Nigeria, Section 143 doesn’t offer any practical framework for impeachment,” Dogara said.

“At the end of the day, all of the National Assembly’s efforts are handed over to a panel of politicians called ‘people of impeccable character.’

I don’t know where we can find these ‘angels.’

Their decision is final and cannot be challenged by either the National Assembly or any court. And these seven individuals are appointed by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, who is appointed by the president—so how can this system work in reality?”

Former governor and minister Rauf Aregbesola, also present, emphasized the need for drastic change, calling Nigeria’s situation “deep in trouble.”

He warned that ongoing declines in economic, political, and social conditions could lead to a popular uprising.

“It’s unrealistic to expect one person to govern 220 million Nigerians effectively,” Aregbesola said.

“Systems that deny people their rights and opportunities will eventually face resistance. If we are aware of these risks and their potential consequences, we should seek the most effective ways to govern ourselves.”