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  • To impeach a president is to charge the president with a crime or misconduct. It is after being found guilty that the president can then be removed from office.

    An impeachment process is a very serious process. It amounts to reversing the decision of the people at the elections. This is why not less than two-thirds majority need of elected senators and representatives all need to agree to the removal of the president before he can be removed from office.

    The process of charging the president with allegation of gross misconduct is the impeachment itself, after which a removal can happen when the president is found guilty and lawmakers agree to adopt the report against him.

    Nigeria’s constitution recognises the process of removal of the president from office on account of “gross misconduct”.

    Section 143 of Nigeria’s 1999 constitution explains how Nigeria’s president or vice-president can be removed from office on account of misconduct.

    Is Anyone Talking About The Criminality of Imo State’s Criminal Law?

    We’ve broken the process into 10 steps:

    Step 1: The notice of allegation

    A notice of allegation in writing must be signed by not less than one-third of all the members of the national assembly, i.e. one-third of the combined 360 members of the house of representatives and 109 members of the senate, making a total of not less than 157 signatures.The notice of allegation must be presented to the senate president.

    Step 2: What must the notice of allegation say?

    The notice of allegation must state that the holder of the office of president is guilty of “gross misconduct” in the performance of his official functions, including the particular things he did wrong.

    What is gross misconduct, anyway?

    The constitution defines a “gross misconduct” as a grave violation or breach of the provisions of the constitution or misconduct that appears to be gross misconduct in the eyes of the national assembly.

    Step 3: Allegation is sent to the president and all members of the National assembly

    The senate president must, within seven (7) days, deliver a copy of the written allegation to the president and to every member of the national assembly.

    Step 4: The president gets to respond:

    The senate president must also deliver any statement by the president in response to the allegation to every member of the national assembly, if he has any.

    Step 5: Moving the motion to investigate the allegation

    Within fourteen (14) days of the notice of the allegation, each house of the national assembly, i.e. senate and house of representatives must decide by a motion, without any debate, whether or not the allegation must be investigated.

    The motion must be supported by not less than two-thirds of the members of each of the senate and the house of representatives, i.e. 73 members of the senate and 240 members of the house of representatives.

    Step 6: What if the motion is not supported by the required number of members?

    If the motion is not supported by this number then the impeachment process ends immediately. If it does, then it moves to the next stage.

    Step 7: Appointing the investigation panel

    Within seven days of the passage of this motion, the Chief Justice of Nigeria, must, at the request of the senate president, appoint a panel of seven people who in his opinion are of unquestionable integrity.

    These seven people must not hold any public office, belong to any legislative house or any political party, and they are to investigate the allegations of “gross misconduct”.

    The powers and procedures of the panel may be set out by the national assembly.

    Step 8: Can the president defend himself at the panel?

    The president has the right to do this. defend himself before this panel, and he also has the right to be represented by legal practitioners before the panel.

    The powers and procedures of the panel may be set out by the national assembly.

    Step 9: On reporting back to the National Assembly

    Within three months, the panel must report back findings of its investigation to each house of the national assembly.

    What if the allegation cannot be proved?

    In a case where the panel reports to each house of the national assembly that the allegation has not been proved, no further action will be taken with respect to the allegation.

    What if the allegation can be proved?

    Where the panel reports back to each house of the national assembly that the allegation against the president has been proved, then each house of the national assembly must consider the report within fourteen (14) days of receiving it.

    Step 10: Adopting the report

    If the report of the panel is adopted by not less than two-third members of each house of the national assembly, then the holder of the office of president stands removed from office as from the date of the adoption of the report, but if it is not then the president is not impeached.

    Can the court come in at any point?

    No proceedings or determination of the panel or the national assembly or any related matter to this process can be entertained or questioned in any court.

    But, in order to reduce the abuse of the “impeachment” process by lawmakers, the courts have held in recent court cases that the courts are empowered to determine the legality of the process leading up to the impeachment process.

    For instance, the court of appeal held in 2016 that the impeachment of Murtala Nyako, a former governor of Taraba State was void and that the impeachment process was illegal because he was not given fair hearing in the impeachment proceedings by the investigating panel.

    #EndSARS: Who Has Powers Over The Nigerian Police?

    Impeached Governors In Nigeria

    No democratic president has been impeached in Nigeria, but seven democratically elected governors have been impeached.

    It is harder to impeach a president because it involves one-third and two-third majorities at the senate and house of representatives at different stages of the process, a majority that is not easy to find. Moreso, many presidents are members of the majority political party in the houses of assembly, which makes it politically hard to impeach the president.

    Balarabe Musa of Kaduna State, Ayo Fayose of Ekiti State, Peter Obi of Anambra State, Joshua Dariye of Plateau State, Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja of Oyo State, Diepreye Alamieyeseigha of Bayelsa State and Murtala Nyako of Adamawa State have all been impeached.

    Joshua Dariye was impeached on allegations of siphoning public funds and money laundering, while Diepreye Alamieyeseigha was impeached on allegations of theft of public funds, abuse of office and money laundering.

    The process of removing a state governor from office on account of gross misconduct follows almost the same process of removing the president from office on account of gross misconduct, except that it is contained in section 188 of the constitution.

    How Can You Be Involved In This Process?

    In theory, the lawmakers are the representatives of the people. So whatever legislative process they partake in, in the national assembly, is interpreted by the constitution as being done on behalf of the people they are representing. Therefore, an impeachment of the president on allegations of gross misconduct means that the people are the ones impeaching and removing him.

    But Nigerian lawmakers can be something else. They, too, might not represent your interest. Which is why we have also explained how they can be recalled.

    Read: How To Recall A Silent Senator

    Did you find this article useful? Please share with someone if you did.

    We hope you’ve learned a thing or two about how to unfuck yourself when the Nigerian government moves mad. Check back every weekday for more Zikoko Citizen explainers.

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  • What does life look like for Gen Z Nigerians everywhere in the world? Every Friday, we ask five Gen Z Nigerian students one question in order to understand their outlook of life. 

    Gen-Z students are considered the future of tomorrow, and although they say they really do not want to fix anything, I decided to ask them what they will do if they were made President of Nigeria for a year.

    Here is what they said:

    Damilola: 19/UniBen

    Scrap Sharia law and tighten up the laws to protect women from FGM, breast ironing, and all those stupid cultural practices like shaving women’s head when their husbands die.

    Demilade: 21/Ebonyi State University

    For a country with as many homeless people as we have, it makes no sense why we do not have a lot of homeless shelters. Throw the overfed politicians out of Aso Rock, and turn it into a homeless shelter. Also, we import too much in this country. Why are we importing groudnut oil? If we provided a means for production to be cheaper, by giving electricity and good roads, these made in Nigeria goods will be cheaper. Cheaper means more affordable. More affordable means more people can afford, and that leads to less importation. Lastly, ban junior WAEC. It is unnecessary.

    Chris: 19/Obafemi Awolowo University

    Except you want me to be a military ruler, there is nothing I can do. Vetoing bills will cause a lot of issues, so let me be a military ruler in peace. Then, I can do all the things that need to be done, like executing members of boko haram. Integrating them into society? Society that has not really recovered from all the nonsense that they have put them through? Nonsense. Then executing corrupt officers. They need to die.

    Kelechi: 18/LASU

    Accept bribe. Yeah, I will pass a few good laws, but I must take my own share of the national cake.

    Ese: 20/UniLag

    Good roads, we need those. Create accessible road channels and actually create a better public transportation system. Do you know how many problems will be solved with having good roads? Also, I will ban fish. It is disgusting.

    For more stories on student life and Gen-Z culture, click here

  • First, we asked you to identify the capitals of all 54 African countries, and you guys killed it. Then, we asked you to identify those same countries by their flags alone, and you struggled a bit. Then, we gave you the toughest one yet: matching African countries to their currencies.

    Now, we are back with presidents of African countries and we are curious to see how well you perform.

    Let’s start:

  • Since time immemorial, well 1999 actually — Nigeria has celebrated its escape from pasty colonialists and military berets with a grand Democracy Day celebration. This day is usually characterised with a much needed public holiday, parades and the inauguration of successful candidates in the year’s elections.

    May 29th, 2019 was no different, only it kind of was. Tuning things a little south of regularly scheduled Democracy Day programming, we couldn’t help but ask a couple of much-needed questions:

    1.Wait, what were we celebrating again?

    So, May 29th is no longer recognised as Democracy Day. Instead, it is now the day set aside to mark the transition into a new government. June 12th will now stand as Democracy Day, to commemorate the fairest election Nigeria ever held. But fret not, you’ll still get a break. Perhaps guilt-ridden by how hard things are in Nigeria, the federal government has set the day aside for yet another public holiday! Aren’t we the luckiest.

    2. What was in Buhari’s bag?

    His flight itinerary for his next two holidays, sorry official visits? The speech he didn’t give to us on May 29th? Perhaps it’s a metaphor, ‘another presidential bag secured’. Guess we’ll never know.

    3. And speaking of that speech… What happened there?

    Always one to switch things up, President Buhari broke a long standing tradition that sees newly sworn in presidents, address the nation on inauguration day. Why he chose to break tradition, we don’t know. Perhaps he thought this would suffice. Well, he thought wrong.

    4. Any takers on what the officer had to tell Oshiomole to leave the stage?

    “You sef look, do you see any other Safari suits on this line?”

    “Were you not at rehearsals yesterday? Make like Beyonce and move it to the left… or right, whatever. Just go”.

    5. Where was Ambode?

    Conspicuously missing from Sanwo-Olu’s inauguration was no other than the outgoing governor of Lagos State, Governor Akinwunmi Ambode.  Was he taking time off to recover from the damage 4 years of waist training might have done? Was he relishing in not having to suck belle to make shirt fine? None of that it would appear, he just didn’t want to steal any of Sanwo’s spotlight with his dashing figure. How kind.

    6. This was a day before, but what was the drama between Amosun and Abiodun?

    ICYMI, for the handover program, Governor Amosun sent his SSG to represent him, while the incoming governor, Dapo Abiodun sent his Deputy-elect — Engineer Noimot Oyedele-Salako to receive the formal handover. What’s with the beef guys?

    7. Very importantly, why was Gowon the only former head of state present at the inauguration?

    If a row was set aside for former heads of states, things would have been real lonely over there. No Obasanjo, not a peep from Shonekan; the only person Pres Bubu had to share jokes about having to run Nigeria with was no other than Gowon. Where did the love go?

  • Everyone knows literally everything that has to do with registration is an extreme sport in this country.

    If you don’t agree, you’re not Nigerian.

    For the first time in forever, Nigeria has made this one thing rather easy for us.

    See it’s very okay to still be in doubt

    Seriously, we all need to save this country and it’s easier now that getting your PVC is like ABC.

    Pay attention

    Note: if you have a valid voter’s registration from 2011, lucky you! you’re only reading this for one reason.

    To let your friend’s know how easy it is.

    This is your opportunity to take a day off work, because your right to vote is important.

    Do I have your attention now?

    Any time between 9am and 3pm from Monday to Friday is great. They’re not open on public holidays though.

    See why you need that day off work? Your Oga has to understand.

    You should carry your International passport or Birth Certificate or Driver’s licence.

    In short just show them everything so they’d know you’re a real life person

    Go to your nearest INEC registration centre, or go to your local government area, they will definitely have one.

    Or you can stand on the road and say “excuse me ma, I’m looking for INEC”

    Once you’re done, you’d get a TVC (Temporary Voter’s Card) slip. Don’t get it missing, you need it to get your PVC later.

    That paper must not get lost oh.

    You can try to ask the INEC person attending to you when your PVC will be ready.

    “Sorry sir, when should I come back for my PVC?” They better know o.

    Finally, Wait and pray, it could take a while.

    But just like 6 months, nothing serious. At least you’ve done your part.

    We made an even simpler and detailed guide here:

    Just visit GetYourPVC.com.  Don’t forget to share!

  • It was an inspiring moment for the world, but particularly for Nigerians, when 39 year-old Emmanuel Macron emerged winner of the French Presidential elections.

    It was particularly inspiring for Nigerians because it is hard to imagine anyone less than forty ruling our country. Especially as even our constitution requires a Presidential candidate to be 40 years or above to be eligible to contest.

    …and also, apparently, a candidate must also be male.

    But the youth in Nigeria are not sleeping, and if there’s anything we have learnt about the power of young Nigerians, it is that we can do anything we set our minds to.

    Here is a list – in no particular order – of 6 Nigerians under 40 who could lead Nigeria if that nonsense forty or over law did not exist:

    1. Japheth Omojuwa

    This 32 year-old blogger, public speaker, socio-economic and political commentator and social media expert, was also named the most influential young Nigerian way back in 2012, among other accolades and awards. He’s always on Twitter, openly criticizing the Nigerian government and all its shortcomings. If Nigeria was a fair country, he should have the opportunity to create a party, campaign and maybe even win.

    2. Seun Onigbinde

    Co-founder and CEO of BudgIT Nigeria, his passion to make governance more accountable and transparent has helped foster social change. If this 31 year-old were to be allowed to campaign, how much transparent and accountable do you think his government would be?

    3. Ayo Sogunro

    This 32 year-old Activist, Lawyer and Writer, is also a Social Entrepreneur. You can find him on Twitter here. His political contributions have inspired many. Imagine how much more he could achieve if given the chance to campaign?

    4. Chude Jideonwo

    Lawyer, award-winning journalist, media entrepreneur and also co-founder and Managing Partner of Red Africa/The Future Project. This 32 year-old has created an online media dynasty in such a short time, imagine what he could do with Nigeria if the “ogas at the top” will just allow somebody to be great?

    5. Aisha Yesufu

    She might be over 40, but her dedication and influence in the #BringBackOurGirls campaign in addition to her no-holds-barred approach to speaking the truth has earned her a spot in this list of young Nigerians who would do a spanking job at ruling if given the opportunity. At 43 years-old, she stands for what she believes in and fights for it to the very end, a quality anyone who is thinking of bringing healing to Nigeria as its leader must certainly possess.

    6. Bukky Shonibare

    Founder of Girl Child Africa, Coordinator of Adopt-A-Camp set up to assist IDPs , CEO of 555 Consulting (HR | Strategy | Dev). She is also a fierce supporter of the #BringBackOurGirls campaign. Bukky Shonibare is force to reckon with, and at 35 years-old, she is one young female under 40 we know would carry Nigeria on her shoulders to see the country reach greatness; if all those bad belle people were no longer there.

  • Once again, our very own President Buhari is making the headlines.

    Don’t worry, he hasn’t traveled to obodo again.

    He only moved his work from his office to his house.

    Yup.

    Appaz, he’s liking the way all this people are staying at home and getting stuff done and he’s not about all that nine to five struggle life.

    Okay, no…not exactly.

    According to his presidential mouthpiece, Min. Lai Mohammed, the president had missed yesterday’s Federal Executive Council Meeting for the second time this month, because he felt slightly under the weather and decided to work from home for the rest of the day.

    But Nigerians are not buying it.

    And in true Nigerian fashion, they are letting their anger and skepticism show. See some of the reactions below:

    1. There appears to be some confusion on the president’s actual working space.

    2. Wait…wait…wait…who brought in the other room now?

    3. But is it not good that our president is embracing all the opportunities of the Internet?

    4. But Oga Lai is not holding him na?

    5. Ah, it’s like the Oba of Lagos has become the new curve meme of April 2017.

    6. But what if the president is looking for a career change?

    https://twitter.com/MrOkeke_/status/857246596504924160

    7. You know, no matter how comfortable, office can never be like house na.

    https://twitter.com/OsasCruz/status/857247627838205952

    8. Er…erm…good luck with that.

    9. Er…we were never really sure about Reno’s nuggets anyways, so we shall handle this advice with care.

    10. But why did y’all have to go and drag Mugabe into it?

    https://twitter.com/MissIgho/status/857236849907179521

    11. From blogger to marketer; if this president thing doesn’t work out, Daddy Bubu appears to have many other career options.

    12. But…but…that was before before now…

    https://twitter.com/torbah_ben/status/857567321069690880

    13. Because Daddy Bubu said he’s now working from home they’ve already gone to give him homework.

    14. But he already told you he belongs to nobody…

    15. But what is wrong with being part of the #WorkingFromHomeGang?

    16. And now, Daddy Bubu has become Daddy Emperor!

    17. Meanwhile, this one wants to receive lectures from home.

    https://twitter.com/lorrettallwell/status/857707904656445440

    18. Strong predictions for Daddy Bubu’s proposed blogging career:

    19. It however appears that the #WorkingFromHomeGang has got Daddy Bubu’s back.

  • After almost 50 days in the wilderness (yes, we know he travelled to London), President Buhari is back.

    He landed this morning in Kaduna, and then took a helicopter to Abuja.

    Fellow Nigerians, rejoice! for your able leader has returned!

    The first lady, Aisha Buhari shared this picture (we can’t lie, it’s quite cute) on her twitter page.

    https://twitter.com/aishambuhari/status/840127111356542976

    Presidential love is sweet oh!

    However, according to some early reports, it seems like Vice President Osinbajo is still in charge while President Buhari continues to rest.

    After more than 40 days, more resting? And you will collect full salary and keep your job? All those who want to be President say I!

    This is us, wondering what exactly is going on in this country.

    This is also us, hoping Daddy Bubu brought back chocolate and original charger for us.

    Anyway, now that he’s back we hope the welfare of Nigeria is placed front and centre because there is so much work to be done.

    So guys, what are your feelings on the President’s return? Are you happy? Excited? Nonchalant? Let us know!
  • As Americans head to the polls to vote Hilary Clinton , we bring you current female world leaders who are making womenfolk proud.

    1. President of Liberia – Ellen Johnson Sirleaf

    2. First Minister of Scotland – Nicola Sturgeon

    3. President of South Korea – Park Geun-Hye

    4. President of Chile – Michelle Bachelet

    5. Prime Minister of Bangladesh – Sheikh Hasina Wajed

    6. Prime Minister of Denmark – Helle Thorning-Schmidt

    7. Chancellor of Germany – Angela Merkel

    8. Prime Minister of Britain- Theresa May

    9. President of Lithunia – Dalia Grybauskaite

    10. Prime Minister of Norway – Erna Solberg

    11. President of Mauritius – Ameenah Gurib-Fakim

    12. President of Croatia – Kolinda Grabar-Kitavoric

  • A lot of Nigerians have been displeased with our honourable president, Muhammadu Buhari and they are not hiding their mouth. A creative Nigerian has created a mixtape, just like the Ministers List we made months ago.

    Twitter user @Dousche_Bag created this epic mixtape about Buhari’s performance so far, using the titles of popular songs by popular American musicians as his inspiration!

    These are our favs:

    1. Hello (From A Private Flight)

    Inspiration is from  Adele’s “Hello”.

    2. Sai My Name, Sai My Name

    Inspired by Destiny’s Child’s “Say My Name”.

    3. Campaign Papi (feat Osi’Banj)

    Inspired by Drake’s other name “Champagne Papi”.

    4. How Low Can You Go (Oil price Diss)

    Inspired by Ludacris’ song of the same name.

    5. How Much A Dollar Cost?

    Inspired by Kendrick Lemar’s song also of the same name.

    6. I Can’t Stay One Place (When I’m With You)

    Inspired by The Weeknd’s “Can’t Feel My Face”.

    7. The Blame Game

    Inspired by Kanye West’s “Blame Game”.