Death Penalty for Drug Manufacturers and Traffickers Approved by Nigerian Senate

The Nigerian Senate has passed a bill approving the death penalty for individuals involved in the manufacture, processing, and trafficking of dangerous drugs in the country, as reported by Vanguard News on May 10, 2024. The Senate also agreed to impose a 15-year imprisonment without the option of a fine for drug consumers, taking into account the significant damage caused by substance and drug abuse in the nation.

The decision to amend the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Act was driven by the prevalence of substance abuse among Nigerian youth, often influenced by peer groups. Senator Mohammed Monguno presented the bill, which received consideration from the Committees on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters, as well as Drugs and Narcotics.

During the review process, the issue of penalty provisions arose, specifically the proposal to amend the punishment for drug traffickers from life imprisonment to the death penalty. Senator Ali Ndume and Senator Peter Nwebonyi raised this proposition under clause 11. Initially, the voice vote seemed to indicate the rejection of the amendment, but upon a second vote, Deputy Senate President Senator Barau Jibrin ruled in favor of the "ayes."

This decision sparked discontent among certain lawmakers, particularly Senator Adams Oshiomhole, who expressed concern about the hasty consideration and passage of the amended clause. Oshiomhole emphasized the importance of caution when dealing with legislation concerning matters of life. However, Jibrin rejected the objection, citing the lateness of the request and the failure to call for a division.

Once the bill is reconciled with the version passed by the House of Representatives, it will be sent to President Bola Tinubu for assent. Senator Mohammed Monguno, the Chairman of the Committee, stated that the amendment aims to address the pressing issue of drug abuse in the country. The death penalty is proposed for individuals involved in the manufacturing and processing of hard drugs, while jail terms are prescribed for drug consumers, with the intention of curbing the destructive impact of substance abuse, particularly among the youth population.