Senate progresses bill to classify kidnapping and hostage-taking as terrorism, proposing the death penalty with no alternative sentencing.
The Senate has approved the second reading of a bill seeking to amend the Terrorism Act to formally designate kidnapping, hostage-taking, and similar offenses as acts of terrorism. The proposed legislation prescribes the death penalty for such offenses, without the option of fines or alternative sentences.
According to lawmakers, the initiative is intended to strengthen the legal framework for addressing the growing threat posed by criminal groups involved in violent abductions and ransom activities. Sponsors of the bill argue that categorizing these crimes as terrorism will serve as a deterrent and reinforce the government’s commitment to protecting public safety and national security.
The bill also reflects concerns over the increasing frequency and brutality of kidnapping incidents across the country, as well as the need for more decisive punitive measures. While the proposal has been welcomed by some stakeholders, others have urged a balanced approach that considers human rights obligations and judicial safeguards.
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The bill will undergo further legislative review and debate before it can be passed by the Senate in its final form. If approved and signed into law, it will represent a significant shift in Nigeria’s counter-terrorism and criminal justice policies.