The Senate has endorsed the inclusion of the death penalty as a punishment for drug traffickers in Nigeria, marking a significant development as the 2024 NDLEA Act (Amendment) Bill passes through its third reading.
During the session on Thursday, the Senate convened into a committee of the whole to undertake a clause-by-clause examination of the report presented by Senator Tahir Munguno, Chairman of the Committees on Judiciary, Human Rights & Legal Matters, and Drugs & Narcotics.
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In a review aimed at strengthening the agency’s operations, Senator Peter Nwebonyi proposed an amendment to introduce the death penalty for drug traffickers instead of a life sentence, under clause 11 of the amendment bill.
Although initial voice voting suggested a majority opposing the amendment, the Deputy Senate President ultimately ruled in favor of the amendment, leading to some disapproval and a slight uproar among lawmakers, including Senator Adams Oshiomhole.
Senator Oshiomhole expressed concerns about the perceived haste in considering and passing the amendment clause. However, the Deputy Senate President maintained that objections came too late in accordance with the rules.
Additionally, the Senate commenced a review of the salaries, allowances, and benefits of judicial office holders in Nigeria to combat bribery and corruption and ensure judicial independence.
An executive bill addressing the remuneration of judicial office holders at both federal and state levels passed its second reading, aiming to adjust salaries to align with current socio-economic conditions.
While the bill received unanimous support, some lawmakers advocated for similar reviews of salaries and remuneration across other sectors, considering the prevailing economic challenges.
The bill has been referred to the Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights, and Legal Matters for further examination, with a report expected in four weeks.
