Senate Moves to Classify Kidnapping as Terrorism

The Nigerian Senate has successfully scaled the second reading of a bill seeking to amend the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act to formally classify kidnapping, hostage-taking, and related crimes as acts of terrorism under Nigerian law.

Sponsored by Senate Leader Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, the proposed legislation prescribes the death penalty for convicted offenders, with no alternative punishment or fines. Bamidele explained that the bill aligns with the upper chamber’s recent resolve to work alongside the Federal Government to provide sustainable solutions to the nation’s growing insecurity.

Presenting the bill, Bamidele described kidnapping as one of the most pervasive and commercialized forms of criminal violence in Nigeria. He noted that it has instilled widespread fear across communities and disrupted education, particularly affecting children, and called for decisive legal measures to curb the menace.

The legislation also recommends that financial institutions found facilitating transactions linked to kidnappers face sanctions, while some lawmakers proposed ending the practice of granting amnesty to identified terrorists.

According to proponents, the death penalty component is intended to serve as a strong deterrent against kidnapping and hostage-taking, sending a clear message that such crimes will be treated as acts of terrorism. The bill follows a broader Senate commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s legal framework to confront organized criminal networks, protect citizens, and restore public confidence in national security mechanisms.

The next stage will involve detailed deliberations and public hearings to refine the bill’s provisions and ensure that enforcement mechanisms and penalties are comprehensive and effective.