Senate Passes Bill Imposing Life Imprisonment for Child Defilement in Nigeria
The Nigerian Senate has approved a new bill prescribing life imprisonment for anyone convicted of sexually defiling minors — a move described as a decisive step toward protecting children from sexual predators.
The legislation, PulseNets learnt, imposes life imprisonment without the option of a fine on any man or woman who engages in sexual intercourse with a child. Lawmakers say the measure reflects the Senate’s commitment to addressing rising cases of child sexual abuse across the country.
While presenting the motion, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North Senatorial District, argued that defilement should be treated differently from rape, noting that minors lack the capacity to give consent.
“A minor is a child who cannot give consent, and such an act leaves lasting psychological and emotional scars,” Oshiomhole told PulseNets. “Those who prey on children must face severe punishment. I suggested a minimum of 20 years imprisonment without an option of fine, considering disturbing incidents involving children as young as five or ten.”
However, PulseNets reported that Oshiomhole’s proposal was rejected by a majority of senators who called for an even stiffer penalty.
In a stronger counter-motion, Senator Muhammad Adamu Aliero of Kebbi Central Senatorial District pushed for life imprisonment as the standard punishment, regardless of the offender’s gender.
“The punishment for defilement of minors should be life imprisonment, whether the offender is male or female,” Aliero told PulseNets, insisting that deterrence must be absolute to curb the growing menace.
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After deliberations, the Senate adopted Aliero’s amendment, formally passing the bill that prescribes life imprisonment for child defilers and pedophiles in Nigeria.
The bill is expected to proceed to the House of Representatives for concurrence before being transmitted to the President for assent.
