The Nigerian Senate has passed amendments to the 2022 Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act, expanding the death penalty to cover all individuals involved in kidnapping. The scope now includes perpetrators, financiers, informants and anyone who knowingly assists in criminal abductions. Sponsored by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, the bill seeks to classify kidnapping and hostage‑taking as terrorism nationwide, thereby granting security agencies broader powers to investigate and disrupt illicit activities.
The amendment received bipartisan support during a plenary session presided over by Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Lawmakers emphasized the urgency of addressing Nigeria’s deepening kidnapping crisis. Akpabio referred the bill to several committees—Judiciary, Human Rights and National Security—with a mandate to hold a public hearing and report back within two weeks.
Proponents argue that kidnapping in Nigeria has become a coordinated, commercialized form of violence that mirrors terrorism in its organization and brutality. Senator Bamidele stressed that the amendment targets only violent offenders and their networks, not innocent communities, and that prosecutions will adhere to constitutional safeguards. Other senators, including Adams Oshiomhole and Orji Uzor Kalu, voiced support, citing the need for harsher penalties to deter kidnappers. Senator Victor Umeh called for scrutiny of financial institutions that facilitate ransom payments, suggesting that banks and individuals involved in such transactions should be held liable.
The amendment forms part of a broader effort to tackle Nigeria’s security challenges. It coincides with the launch of an investigation into the Safe School Initiative, which has failed to protect schoolchildren from attacks and abductions. The Senate has pledged to track spending on the initiative and expose gaps in funding, implementation and security deployment.
In a related development, Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening the Nigeria Police, describing the force as evolving into a disciplined, fit and community‑centered organization. He highlighted the importance of sports in shaping the police and expressed appreciation for hosting the 15th Nigeria Police Games in Asaba, Delta State.
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