On Thursday, May 9, the Senate approved a bill that introduces the death penalty for those convicted of drug trafficking in Nigeria.

The existing NDLEA Act prescribes a maximum sentence of life imprisonment for such offenses.

The Senate’s decision followed the consideration of a report by the Committees on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters, and Drugs and Narcotics, on the NDLEA Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024.

The bill, which passed its third reading, aims to update the list of dangerous drugs, strengthen NDLEA operations, review penalties, and empower the establishment of laboratories.

During the plenary session, Senator Mohammed Monguno (APC-Borno North), Chairman of the Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights & Legal Matters, presented the report.

Although the report did not recommend the death penalty, Senator Ali Ndume moved for an amendment to upgrade the life sentence to death.

The amendment was put to a voice vote by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, who ruled in favor of the “ayes.” However, Senator Adams Oshiomhole objected, arguing that the “nays” had it.

The approved amendment modifies Section 11 of the current act, which previously prescribed life imprisonment for drug trafficking offenses, to introduce the death penalty.

The bill will now be sent to the House of Representatives for concurrence before being transmitted to the President for assent.