The Nigerian Senate has approved the death sentence as a penalty for drug traffickers in the country, as it passes through the third reading, the 2024 NDLEA Act (Amendment) Bill.

The proposal was adopted on Thursday when the Senate dissolved into a committee of the whole for a clause-by-clause consideration of a report of the Chairman of the Committees on Judiciary, Human Rights & Legal Matters and Drugs & Narcotics National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024, Senator Tahir Munguno.

In a review of the penalty provisions of the amendment bill towards strengthening the operations of the agency, a proposed amendment to award a death sentence to drug traffickers rather than just a life sentence was raised by the Senate Chief Whip, Ali Ndume which sparked debate among senators

When the matter was put to a voice vote, it appeared the nays had it. However, when the question was put on a second vote, the Deputy senate President ruled in favour of the ayes” had it slight uproar ensued as some lawmakers were displeased

Senator Adams Oshiomhole expressed his displeasure over what he considered a hasty consideration and passage of the amended clause. The Deputy Senate President rejected an objection by Senator Oshiomhole to reverse the ruling, insisting that it came late which is against the rules.

The bill was subsequently read for the third time and passed by the Senate.