- The Nigerian Senate has passed the Criminal Code Amendment Bill 2025, setting life imprisonment for defilement of minors across the country.
- Lawmakers also approved tougher penalties for rape and sexual offences, increasing the minimum sentence from five to ten years.
- The Senate debated provisions on abortion laws in Nigeria, seeking clarity to protect doctors acting during medical emergencies.
- Senate President Godswill Akpabio said the bill reflects Nigeria’s commitment to ending sexual violence and child abuse.
The Nigerian Senate has approved a landmark life imprisonment penalty for defilement of minors, a sharp increase from the previous five-year term under the nation’s criminal code. The decision came after the passage of the Criminal Code (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which seeks to impose tougher penalties for sexual offences in Nigeria, marking a new era of zero tolerance for child abuse and gender-based violence.
The bill, which had earlier scaled through the House of Representatives, gained unanimous support in the Senate chamber. Lawmakers described the defilement of minors as “a wicked act that destroys a child’s future,” stressing that punishment must match the severity of the crime.
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Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced after a voice vote that any person found guilty of defiling a minor would face life imprisonment without the option of a fine. “Let every Nigerian know that the law will no longer be lenient on predators,” Akpabio said.
Beyond defilement, the Senate also revised penalties for rape and sexual assault, with offenders now facing a minimum of ten years in prison. The new provision recognises both male and female victims, a change inspired by Senator Adams Oshiomhole, who argued that “rape can happen to anyone, regardless of gender.”
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However, the session turned tense when lawmakers debated clauses relating to abortion and pregnancy termination. Senator Abdul Ningi cautioned that vague wording could criminalise doctors performing life-saving procedures. In response, Akpabio directed the Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters to review the section within two weeks.
Once harmonised with the House version, the bill is expected to become one of Nigeria’s strongest legal shields against sexual violence, reinforcing protection for minors and vulnerable individuals.
