The National Assembly is set to open discussions on the future of the death penalty in Nigeria.
The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, on Friday, indicated that Parliament was ready to engage with Nigerians on whether capital punishment should be abolished.
The statement comes amid a growing global movement against the death penalty, with over 130 countries having abolished it in law or practice. On the African continent, nations like Rwanda, Burundi, Chad, Sierra Leone, and Benin Republic have taken this step, signaling a shift toward alternative justice approaches.
Though Nigeria has maintained a voluntary moratorium on executions since 2014, capital punishment remains legal for offences like murder, armed robbery, and treason.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by officials from the British High Commission and the Death Penalty Project in Abuja, Kalu emphasized that any move on the matter would require extensive input from Nigerians.
“Laws in the country reflect the realities of our society,” he said, acknowledging that the Constitution Review Committee, which he chairs, has already examined the implications of abolishing the death penalty—including its moral, ethical, and practical effects.
Kalu also pointed to Nigeria’s neutral stance at the United Nations, noting that the country was among 22 states that abstained from voting on a UN resolution for a global moratorium on executions in December 2024.
The resolution, supported by 130 nations, marked the tenth international call for a moratorium since 2007.
“The global trend reflects a shift toward justice systems that prioritize rehabilitation and restorative practices, rather than solely punitive measures,” Kalu stated.
While confirming that no formal legislation on the issue is currently before the 10th House of Representatives, Kalu assured that lawmakers are prepared to begin deliberations as soon as possible.
However, he was clear that the debate will not be about downplaying serious crimes, but rather about ensuring a justice system that is fair, effective, and respectful of human rights.
The question now is: Should Nigeria follow the global trend and abolish the death penalty, or does capital punishment remain a necessary tool for justice?
This is a conversation that could reshape Nigeria’s criminal justice system for generations to come.
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