Nigeria approves decriminalisation of attempted suicide

Nigeria's Federal Executive Council has approved the decriminalisation of attempted suicide, marking a significant shift from criminal prosecution toward mental health intervention. Previously, under Section 327 of the Criminal Code Act and Section 231 of the Penal Code, attempting suicide was a misdemeanour punishable by up to one year in prison or fines.

Health advocates and mental health organisations, including Nigerian Mental Health, have welcomed the reform. They argue that criminalisation creates barriers, as the fear of arrest or public exposure often prevents distressed individuals from seeking medical or psychological support. Advocates suggest that survivors require clinical care rather than legal charges.

Psychiatrist Professor Taiwo Obindo noted that while many suicide attempts are linked to mental health conditions like depression, others may be driven by impulsivity, poverty, or chronic illness. He emphasized that decriminalisation will allow for better access to mental health assessments and psychosocial support, helping to treat suicide attempts as a public health concern rather than a criminal offence.