Senate Proposes Life Imprisonment for Defilement of Minors

The Nigerian Senate has taken a decisive step towards strengthening child protection laws with the passage of a bill proposing life imprisonment for anyone convicted of defiling a minor, without the option of a fine.

The bill, titled the Criminal Code Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025, forms part of broader reforms to update the nation’s criminal justice system and align it with modern human rights standards. It was initially passed by the House of Representatives before being presented for concurrence in the Senate.

Leading the debate, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele said the amendment aims to close loopholes in existing laws and eliminate gender bias in the prosecution of sexual offences. He described the bill as a major milestone in safeguarding the dignity and future of Nigerian children.

Under the existing Criminal Code, the offence of defilement carries a five-year jail term, but the new proposal upgrades the punishment to life imprisonment to serve as a stronger deterrent against sexual predators.

In addition, the Senate also recommended a 10-year jail term for rape, defined as the act of forcing any person male or female into sexual activity without consent, whether in a brothel or any other premises.

Clause 2(1) of the proposed amendment reads:
“Any person who detains a man or boy, a girl or a woman against his or her will in any premises in order to have unlawful carnal knowledge of him or her, whether in a brothel or elsewhere, commits a felony and is liable on conviction to a minimum jail term of 10 years.”

However, after extensive deliberation, the Senate stepped down the bill to allow for further review, particularly over concerns regarding a controversial abortion-related clause and other grey areas. The matter was referred to the Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters for further scrutiny, with instructions to report back within two weeks.

A brief moment of drama ensued during plenary when Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan attempted to reopen debate on the abortion clause after the bill had already been stepped down. Senator Adams Oshiomhole quickly raised a point of order, arguing that Senate rules forbid further discussion once a matter has been ruled upon.

“I think my distinguished sister should agree that these are the rules,” Oshiomhole said, stressing the importance of adhering to parliamentary procedures.

In response, Senate President Godswill Akpabio upheld the objection, ruling Senator Natasha out of order. “I’m not a spirit to know what she wanted to say,” Akpabio remarked light-heartedly, before reaffirming that the rules of the chamber must be respected.

The referral of the bill signals the Senate’s intent to ensure that every clause is carefully vetted before final passage a move that underscores its commitment to justice, due process, and the protection of vulnerable citizens.