Senate Declares Kidnapping, Banditry as Terrorism, Approves Death Penalty for Offenders

November 27, 2025
By Ayinde Adeleke

The Senate on Wednesday passed a landmark resolution formally classifying kidnapping and banditry as acts of terrorism in Nigeria. The move follows rising concerns over widespread abductions and violent attacks across several states.

During plenary, lawmakers voted to amend relevant legal provisions to strengthen the country’s response to the growing security threats. Under the new approval, individuals convicted of kidnapping or banditry will face the death penalty.

Senators who supported the measure argued that the escalating nature of the crimes demanded tougher penalties and a more decisive national stance. They noted that the designation of the offences as terrorism would enhance the capacity of security agencies to pursue and prosecute offenders under existing counterterrorism laws.

The Senate also urged the executive and security institutions to intensify coordinated operations in affected regions and ensure swift implementation of the new measures.

The resolution is expected to be transmitted to the House of Representatives for concurrence before being forwarded to the President for assent.