The Senate has passed a new bill prescribing life imprisonment for anyone found guilty of engaging in sexual intercourse with a minor in Nigeria.
The bill, which was passed during plenary on Wednesday, removes any option of fine for offenders. Lawmakers said the move is aimed at strengthening legal protection for children and curbing the rising cases of child defilement across the country.
Presenting the bill, the sponsor said the legislation seeks to send a strong message that crimes against children will no longer be tolerated in any form.
Lawmakers during debate expressed concern over the increasing reports of sexual abuse involving minors, stressing that the severe punishment would serve as a strong deterrent to potential offenders.
The Senate President, who presided over the session, commended the lawmakers for their unanimous support and described the bill as a milestone in the protection of children’s rights in Nigeria.
The bill will be forwarded to the House of Representatives for concurrence before being transmitted to the President for assent.
