Nigerian Senate advances bill to decriminalize attempted suicide

The Nigerian Senate has passed a bill for its second reading that seeks to decriminalize attempted suicide and establish a national suicide prevention framework. Sponsored by Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, the legislation aims to replace criminal punishment with medical assessment, rehabilitation, and follow-up care. The bill also proposes crisis helplines, public education, and a national data system to support mental health.

During the deliberations, Senate President Godswill Akpabio expressed strong opposition to the decriminalization efforts. Akpabio argued that attempted suicide should remain a criminal offense, suggesting that removing penalties could encourage the act. He stated, “If you attempt suicide, make sure you die. Anyone who attempts and fails will go to jail.”

The Senate President's remarks have drawn sharp criticism from civil society groups and political figures. The Community Outreach for Development and Welfare Advocacy (CODWA) described his stance as “state-endorsed despair,” while the African Democratic Congress (ADC) labeled his comments “insensitive and disturbing.” Legal experts and mental health advocates have argued that criminalization discourages individuals from seeking help and contradicts the National Mental Health Act, which recognizes suicide attempts as psychiatric emergencies.