Senate Approves Life Jail Term for Child Defilement, Moves to Strengthen Rape Laws

The Senate has approved life imprisonment for anyone convicted of defiling a minor, replacing the previous five-year jail term. The decision followed deliberation on the Criminal Code (Amendment) Bill, 2025, aimed at imposing tougher penalties for sexual offences.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced the resolution after a unanimous voice vote, stressing that defilement is a “heinous act” that destroys a child’s future. The Senate also revised penalties for rape, setting a minimum 10-year sentence for offenders, regardless of gender.

Debate intensified over abortion-related provisions, with lawmakers urging protection for doctors performing life-saving procedures. Akpabio directed the Judiciary Committee to review those sections and report within two weeks.

Meanwhile, the House of Representatives launched a probe into the $4.6 billion in Global Fund and USAID grants for Nigeria’s HIV/AIDS, TB, malaria, and polio programmes between 2021 and 2025. Sponsored by Philip Agbese, the motion seeks to uncover how the funds were utilised despite Nigeria’s poor health outcomes.

The House also debated a motion to safeguard the Dangote Refinery and other strategic private investments from disruptive labour actions. Following heated exchanges, members resolved that Speaker Tajudeen Abbas and the House leadership would mediate between PENGASSAN and Dangote Group to resolve their recent dispute through dialogue.

Both chambers emphasised accountability, rule of law, and protection of national interests in their latest legislative actions.