Evaluation of Impeachment Proceedings under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999

Abstract

The provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 on the impeachment and/or removal of public office holders have been invoked with fervor and unusual glee in recent times. In some cases, reasons other than the breach of law or gross misconduct have been found to be behind the ouster of elected officers. In this regard, several instances of procedural deviations and outright lawlessness have been cited. 

This article examines the position of the Constitution on the removal of public office holders in light of the above. This will entail a review of Sections 143 and 188 of the Constitution and the extent to which they have been applied in deserving cases. The Sections will also be appraised for both relevance and adequacy within the context of what ought to be, in a functional constitutional democracy.

Keywords:             Impeachment, Removal, Public office holder, Gross misconduct, Abuse of office