- Akpabio backs death penalty as deterrent against kidnapping
- Senate moves to classify kidnapping on same level as terrorism
- Tinubu praised for rescue of abducted children
- National Assembly pledges support for tougher security laws
Nigeria’s kidnapping crisis may soon attract the harshest punishment as Senate President Godswill Akpabio declared strong backing for the death penalty for kidnappers, describing capital punishment as a necessary deterrent to violent crime.
Speaking on Thursday at the 14th APC National Caucus meeting held at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja, Akpabio said the National Assembly is determined to tighten laws aimed at ending kidnapping, banditry, and terrorism across the country.
ATTENTION: Click “HERE” to join our WhatsApp group and receive News updates directly on your WhatsApp!
The Senate President commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as decisive leadership in tackling insecurity, especially the recent rescue of abducted children. According to him, the successful operations reflect renewed commitment by the Federal Government to protect lives and property.
Akpabio revealed that lawmakers have already taken concrete legislative steps to strengthen deterrence, noting that kidnapping has now been legally placed on the same level as terrorism.
READ ALSO: Driver to Governor’s Chief of Staff Punches, Attacks Councillor in Gombe
“Kidnappers will face the death sentence once the President assents to the bill,” Akpabio declared.
He warned that failure to enforce capital punishment could embolden criminals, leading to more jailbreaks, attacks, and loss of innocent lives. He also offered condolences to families of soldiers and civilians who died during rescue operations.
“We condole with families who lost loved ones, including members of the armed forces who paid the ultimate price protecting lives and property,” he said.
Akpabio further linked Nigeria’s internal security challenges to instability in neighbouring countries, praising President Tinubu’s diplomatic engagement in the Benin Republic and across the region.
“If our neighbours are not stable, Nigeria cannot be stable,” he stated, adding that the Senate fully supports the President’s regional security efforts.
In recent months, rising insecurity has shaken communities nationwide, with kidnappers and terrorists carrying out deadly attacks and mass abductions, prompting renewed calls for tougher punishment and swift justice.
