Nigerian Senate Passes Law Approving Life Imprisonment for Defilement of Minors
The Nigerian Senate has approved a new law prescribing life imprisonment for anyone found guilty of defiling a minor, signaling a stronger national commitment to protecting children from abuse.
The decision marks a major step in Nigeria’s ongoing fight against sexual violence and child exploitation, with lawmakers emphasizing that such crimes will no longer be treated lightly.
Stronger Penalties for Crimes Against Minors
During plenary, Senate President Godswill Akpabio drew a clear distinction between defilement and rape, stressing that crimes involving minors deserve far more severe punishment.
“Defilement of a minor must be treated differently from other offenses,” Akpabio said. “Those involved should face the harshest penalties. I have seen too many cases involving children as young as five to ten years old.”
He initially proposed a 20-year minimum sentence for offenders, underscoring the urgent need to protect underage victims from lifelong trauma.
Lawmakers Push for Harsher Sentences
Senator Adamu Aliero supported Akpabio’s stance, recommending that the minimum jail term be fixed at 20 years, without any option of fine or parole.
In a firmer position, Senator Sunday Adeleke proposed life imprisonment, citing countries like India and Pakistan, where similar crimes attract capital punishment. He argued that Nigeria must send a strong message of zero tolerancetoward such acts.
Senate Adopts Life Imprisonment Without Option of Fine
After extensive deliberation, the Senate unanimously approved life imprisonment for anyone—male or female—found guilty of sexual misconduct with a minor.
This means offenders will serve life sentences with no option of fine, establishing one of the toughest legal responses to child-related crimes in Nigeria’s history.
Protecting Nigerian Children and Restoring Moral Responsibility
Lawmakers agreed that this decision reflects the National Assembly’s determination to safeguard children and reduce the rising cases of sexual violence nationwide.
Senate President Akpabio described the resolution as a milestone in justice and moral reform, noting that it reaffirms Nigeria’s duty to protect its most vulnerable citizens.
“This law is a step toward restoring dignity, justice, and moral responsibility in our society,” Akpabio said.
Conclusion
The Senate’s approval of life imprisonment for child defilement represents a defining moment in Nigeria’s fight against abuse. It reinforces the country’s commitment to justice, child protection, and social accountability—sending a clear message that crimes against minors will face the harshest consequences.
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