Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Henry Owen
Abuja, Nigeria — Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North Senatorial District, has called for life imprisonment without an option of fine for individuals convicted of defiling minors, during the debate on the Criminal Code (Amendment) Bill, 2025, in the Nigerian Senate.
Leading the discussion, Oshiomhole underscored the moral and legal distinction between defilement and rape, stressing that minors cannot legally consent and that victims of defilement endure lifelong physical and psychological trauma.
“Defilement is not just a crime—it is the destruction of a child’s future,” Oshiomhole declared on the Senate floor. “We must send a clear message that anyone who violates a minor deserves the harshest punishment possible.”
The bill, which originated from the House of Representatives, seeks to modernize Nigeria’s Criminal Code to reflect contemporary realities and provide stronger protection for children from sexual abuse.
Under the proposed amendment, life imprisonment will be imposed on anyone found guilty of defiling a minor, irrespective of gender. The bill also introduces a 10-year jail term for rape, recognizing that victims of sexual violence can be of any gender.
Oshiomhole’s intervention led to a pivotal change in the bill, ensuring gender inclusivity in defining victims of rape and sexual offenses.
“Rape can happen to anyone—male or female,” Oshiomhole stated, urging the Senate to ensure justice applies equally to all victims.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio praised the amendment, describing defilement as “a more grievous crime than rape” and commending Oshiomhole’s passionate advocacy for child protection.
“Defilement is even more serious than rape. It should carry the most severe punishment,” Akpabio said as the bill passed through unanimous adoption.
The Criminal Code (Amendment) Bill, 2025, now proceeds to the House of Representatives for concurrence before being transmitted to President Bola Tinubu for presidential assent.
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