The Nigerian Senate on Wednesday passed the second reading of a bill proposing the death penalty for kidnapping.
The legislation, sponsored by all 108 senators, seeks to amend the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, who led the debate, said the amendment would classify kidnapping, hostage-taking, and similar offences as acts of terrorism. He added that the bill would provide security agencies with stronger powers to dismantle kidnapping networks.
“The patterns of organisation, brutality, and destabilisation associated with kidnapping now carry all the characteristics of terrorism,” Bamidele said. “Kidnapping has instilled widespread fear, bankrupted families, disrupted education, and claimed countless innocent lives.”
The bill proposes the death penalty for perpetrators, financiers, informants, logistics providers, and anyone who knowingly aids kidnapping operations. Attempt, conspiracy, or incitement to kidnap would attract the same punishment.
Several senators expressed support for the bill. Adams Oshiomhole of Edo North said, “No more deradicalisation. If you are caught, the penalty is death if convicted.”
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Orji Kalu of Abia North added, “Nigerians have suffered in the hands of kidnappers. Women have become widows for no reason.”
Minority Leader Abba Moro, representing Benue South, described kidnapping as a “business enterprise” that must be stopped. Victor Umeh of Anambra Central stressed that kidnappers deserve “no mercy” and called for accountability among financial institutions, some of which he said facilitate ransom payments.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio referred the bill to the committees on judiciary, human rights and legal matters; national security and intelligence; and interior for further review. The committees are expected to report back within two weeks.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
