Lawmakers propose separating the offices of the AGF and the minister of justice
The House of Representatives is reviewing a proposal to separate the duties of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) from those of the Minister of Justice.
If passed, this change would also apply to state governments, making the Attorney General’s role independent from the Commissioners of Justice.
The bill, backed by lawmakers Mansur Soro (Bauchi State) and Oluwole Oke (Osun), is being examined by the House Committee on Constitution Review, led by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu. It aims to amend Section 150 of the 1999 Constitution by adding a clause to clarify that the Attorney General will be the Chief Law Officer, separate from the Minister of Justice. The President will appoint the Attorney General with Senate approval.
A similar amendment is proposed for Section 195, establishing that states will have their own Attorney Generals, appointed by the Governor with approval from the State House of Assembly.
Explaining the proposal, Soro highlighted that it aims to improve criminal justice, protect public interests, and prevent misuse of legal powers in government prosecutions. He pointed out that the Minister of Justice and Commissioners of Justice are often political figures who provide legal advice and manage justice policies, while the Attorney General is supposed to focus solely on impartial legal matters.
Soro argued that combining these roles can create conflicts of interest. The bill seeks to prevent political interference, enhance public trust in the justice system, and ensure impartiality in legal processes.
Regarding concerns about increased government costs if the bill becomes law, Soro stated that the benefits, such as a more reliable and fair justice system, outweigh the financial implications.
