Senate Moves to Classify Kidnapping as Terrorism, Approves Maximum Death Penalty in Sweeping Security Resolution
Senate Takes Hardline Position as Kidnapping Crisis Escalates
The Nigerian Senate on Tuesday adopted a wide-ranging set of resolutions designed to confront the country’s worsening security crisis, particularly the surge in kidnappings, banditry, and targeted school attacks. In an unprecedented move, lawmakers classified all kidnapping-related offences as acts of terrorism— a decision that will attract the maximum death penalty with no judicial option of sentence reduction.
The resolutions emerged after an intense debate presided over by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, following a motion of urgent national importance sponsored by Senator Ashiru Oyelola Yisa (Kwara South) and strengthened by amendments from Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele.
Death Penalty for Kidnapping as Senate Orders Immediate Legal Amendment
In what observers described as one of the most decisive declarations against terrorism in recent times, the Senate resolved that “all laws relating to kidnapping should be classified as terrorism and should have a maximum death penalty.” Lawmakers insisted that no judge should have the authority to overturn, reduce, or substitute the punishment.
To enforce this new framework, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele was directed to present an amendment bill “in the shortest possible time” to align existing security laws with the new directive.
Senate Dissolves Two Key Security Committees
In a dramatic institutional shake-up, lawmakers dissolved the Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence and the Committee on Air Force. The committees, previously chaired by Senator Shehu Buba (Bauchi South) and Senator Godiya Akwashiki (Nasarawa North) respectively, are to be reconstituted within one week.
According to Akahi News, this rare dissolution reflects mounting parliamentary frustration over persistent security failures nationwide.
Senate Rolls Out Comprehensive Directives to Security Agencies and Ministries
Beyond legislative amendments, the Senate outlined 13 robust resolutions aimed at strengthening national security architecture. Key highlights include:
1. Appeal for Unity and Vigilance
Communities across Kwara, Kebbi, Niger, and other high-risk regions were urged to remain united, vigilant, and to expose internal collaborators aiding criminal networks.
2. Commendation to President Tinubu and Security Agencies
Lawmakers praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for swift interventions and urged continued rescue missions until every abducted citizen is freed.
Akahi News learnt that several recent rescue efforts influenced Monday’s debate.
3. Urgent Reconstruction of Damaged Federal Highways
The Federal Ministry of Works was directed to begin immediate repairs on highways frequently exploited by bandits for ambush operations.
4. Intensified Joint Security Operations
Security agencies, including the Nigerian Army, Police, DSS, and Defence Intelligence Bureau, were mandated to:
– Deploy intelligence-driven combat strategies
– Conduct sustained aerial surveillance
– Expand inter-state collaboration
– Strengthen community-based intelligence networks
5. Creation of New Joint Task Force (JTF)
A new JTF covering the Kwara–Kogi axis was approved, with Forward Operating Bases to be established in:
Eruku, Babanla, Oke-Ero, Isanlu, and Wasagu (Kebbi State).
6. Relief for Traumatised Communities
The Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and NEMA must deliver immediate relief to communities where schools have been shut due to persistent attacks.
7. Strengthening Local Vigilante Groups
The Senate encouraged the Federal Government to reinforce recognised vigilante groups and review firearm laws similar to practices in “over 175 countries where responsible citizens are permitted to own guns.”
8. Investigation Into Kebbi Troop Withdrawal
All Senate security committees were directed to investigate:
– The reported withdrawal of military personnel hours before the Kebbi school attack
– The controversial circular linked to the killing of Brigadier Uba in Maiduguri
Committees must report back within two weeks.
9. International Cooperation on Counter-Terrorism
The Senate pledged to engage the US Congress and other allied parliaments for intelligence sharing, counter-terrorism capacity building, and advanced technology support.
10. One-Week Briefing Requirement
Security committees are to brief the Senate within one week on current operational activities.
11. One-Minute Silence
The chamber observed a minute’s silence in honour of victims of recent terrorist attacks.
12. Support for President Tinubu’s Security Efforts
Lawmakers reaffirmed their commitment to align with the President’s drive for a comprehensive overhaul of the nation’s security architecture.
13. Senate Leadership to Meet the President
Senate leaders will meet President Tinubu to present the full list of resolutions and chart additional steps toward restoring national security.
A Turning Point in Nigeria’s Fight Against Kidnapping?
Analysts who spoke with journalists noted that the Senate’s unanimous stance signals rising political urgency as kidnapping incidents continue to destabilise communities across the country. According to Akahi News, citizens are increasingly demanding bold and uncompromising action.
While implementation remains critical, the Senate’s sweeping resolutions may mark the beginning of a new, more aggressive legislative and security approach aimed at reclaiming public safety.
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By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Joseph Iyaji is a journalist, educator, and founder of Akahi G. International, Akahi Tutors, and Akahi News. Read more about him here.
Akahi News http://www.akahinews.org
