Senate Passes Bill Imposing Life Imprisonment for Child Defilement
In a major legislative move, the Nigerian Senate has approved life imprisonment for anyone convicted of defiling a child, a dramatic increase from the current five-year sentence under the nation’s criminal code.
The decision followed the consideration of the Criminal Code (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which aims to impose tougher penalties for sexual offences and related crimes.
Lawmakers described the defilement of children as a “heinous act capable of destroying a child’s life forever,” stressing that punishment must reflect the gravity of the offence.
The bill, first passed by the House of Representatives, also increases the minimum sentence for rape and related sexual offences to 10 years imprisonment, up from five years.
The amendment explicitly recognises both male and female sexually abused children, a key inclusion inspired by Senator Adams Oshiomhole, ensuring broader protection under the law.
Former Kebbi State Governor Adamu Aliero had earlier pushed for life imprisonment for all rape cases, but the Senate settled on a 10-year minimum, allowing judges to impose stiffer penalties in aggravated circumstances.
However, debate intensified when the chamber addressed clauses on abortion and pregnancy termination. Some senators warned that vague provisions could criminalise doctors acting to save lives during emergencies.
In response, Senate President Akpabio directed the Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights, and Legal Matters to review those sections within two weeks.
This development reinforces the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, which obligates governments to protect children from all forms of sexual exploitation and abuse.
It also echoes the Child Rights Act of Nigeria (2003), which guarantees every child’s right to dignity, protection from sexual violence, and freedom from exploitation. The Senate’s decision marks a crucial step toward upholding these rights and ensuring that every child in Nigeria grows up safe, respected, and free from sexual harm.
