The Nigerian Senate’s attempt to pass a major overhaul of the nation’s criminal laws was derailed by an on-floor procedural conflict centered on a controversial abortion provision.
The clash between Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan led to the bill being sent back for more review. This tension occurred moments after the chamber voted to mandate life imprisonment for the sexual abuse of children.
The legislation in question is the Criminal Code Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which originated from the House of Representatives, seeking to overhaul some sections of Nigeria’s criminal law. The Senate initially made progress by voting to increase the penalty for defilement from a maximum of five years to a non-negotiable life sentence.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio stated;
Any defilement of a minor in Nigeria henceforth attracts life imprisonment. Let everyone be aware – Akpabio
However, the momentum was broken by a clause addressing abortion, which, due to deep religious and cultural sensitivities, caused the Senate to halt its consideration and refer the entire bill to a committee.
Supporters of the procedural ruling, including Senator Adams Oshiomhole, who called for strict adherence to parliamentary rules. Oshiomhole stated;
If a matter has been stepped down and ruled on, it is out of order to reopen it – Oshiomhole
Conversely, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan attempted to reopen the debate to represent a pro-woman perspective on the abortion clause, leading to disagreements between some senators.
The Criminal Code Amendment Bill now faces a two-week delay as the committee reviews the controversial clauses. While the new penalties for child defilement and rape (a minimum of 10 years) remain provisions of the bill, the abortion clause’s fate remain uncertain. The committee’s report and subsequent Senate debate will determine the final shape of the law, before the bill can proceed for Presidential assent.
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