Senate Approves Life Imprisonment for Conviction of Minor’s Defilement

October 22, 2025
By Tobi Akinnubi

The Nigerian Senate has passed a bill prescribing life imprisonment for anyone found guilty of defiling a minor, a move aimed at strengthening legal measures against sexual violence and ensuring justice for victims.

The decision followed extensive deliberation during Tuesday’s plenary session, where lawmakers unanimously described the defilement of minors, irrespective of gender as a grievous and inhumane act capable of inflicting lifelong trauma on victims.

Leading the debate, Senator Adams Oshiomhole had initially moved a motion proposing a 20-year jail term for offenders. However, Senator Adamu Aliero raised a counter-motion seeking a harsher penalty of life imprisonment, arguing that the magnitude of the crime warranted the maximum punishment.

The motion was seconded by Senator Olamilekan Yayi, and after a unanimous voice vote, the Senate resolved that any individual convicted of defiling a minor in Nigeria would henceforth face life imprisonment without the option of a fine.

Announcing the resolution, Senate President Godswill Akpabio declared:
“The Senate has decided that any defilement of a minor in Nigeria, henceforth, attracts life imprisonment without an option of fine. Let everyone be aware.”

The development underscores the Senate’s growing concern over rising cases of sexual abuse across the country and reflects its determination to impose stiffer sanctions on offenders as a deterrent measure.