By Ayomide Otitoju
The Nigerian Senate on Tuesday passed the second reading of a bill seeking to amend the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act to classify kidnapping, hostage-taking, and related offenses as acts of terrorism.
Sponsored by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, the proposed legislation prescribes the death penalty for offenders, with no option for a fine or alternative sentence. Bamidele said the bill reflects the Senate’s commitment to collaborating with the Federal Government to address the country’s escalating security challenges.
During an executive session three weeks ago, the Senate resolved to introduce a stronger legal framework targeting the rising tide of kidnappings nationwide. Presenting the bill, Bamidele described kidnapping as “one of the most pervasive and highly commercialized forms of violence,” noting its impact on communities and education, particularly for children.
The amendment seeks to formally recognize kidnapping and hostage-taking as acts of terrorism under Nigerian law. Lawmakers stressed that the introduction of the death penalty is intended to act as a deterrent.
During public hearings, lawmakers also discussed sanctions for financial institutions found facilitating transactions linked to kidnappers, and some advocated ending the practice of granting amnesty to identified terrorists.
The bill has been referred to joint committees on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters, Interior, and National Intelligence, which are expected to report back within two weeks.
