SENATE
By Olayiwola Mercy
The Nigerian Senate has taken a significant step to combat the rising wave of kidnappings in the country by declaring it an act of terrorism and prescribing the death penalty for offenders. This decision was made during a plenary session on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, in response to the escalating insecurity in Kwara, Kebbi, and Niger States.
The Senate’s resolution mandates that all laws relating to kidnapping be classified as terrorism, attracting the maximum death penalty without the option of fine or judicial discretion to reduce the punishment. This move aims to send a strong message to kidnappers and deter future incidents.
The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, announced the decision after a majority of senators supported the proposal through a voice vote. The resolution was sponsored by Senator Ashiru Oyelola Yisa (Kwara South) and amended by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele. The Senate also directed the Senate Leader to introduce a formal amendment bill to reflect this change in the Terrorism (Prevention) Act.
The declaration of kidnapping as an act of terrorism is part of the Senate’s efforts to address the nation’s security challenges. The Senate has also approved the establishment of a Joint Task Force to secure the Kwara-Kogi corridor, an area known for bandit activities, and has directed the Federal Ministry of Works to repair damaged federal highways that facilitate criminal activities.
Senators have expressed concern over the increasing sophistication of criminal gangs and the devastating impact of kidnappings on citizens, communities, and the economy. They believe that classifying kidnapping as terrorism will empower security agencies to track, arrest, and prosecute offenders more effectively.
The Senate’s decision comes after a series of high-profile kidnappings, including the abduction of schoolchildren in Kebbi and Niger States, and the attack on Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku, Kwara State, where 38 worshippers were taken hostage. All victims were later rescued through coordinated security operations.
