By peace Udugba
The Nigerian Senate has taken a bold step toward protecting minors from sexual abuse by passing a bill that prescribes *life imprisonment* for individuals who defile children, removing the option of fines as an alternative punishment.
This landmark legislation aims to address the rising cases of child sexual exploitation and ensure justice for victims.
During Tuesday’s plenary, Senator Adams Oshiomhole (Edo North) moved a motion distinguishing defilement of minors from general rape cases, stressing that children are incapable of giving consent and are often left with lasting psychological trauma.
“For a minor — a child — this is someone who cannot consent. Their lives can be permanently scarred by such acts. Those found guilty should face severe punishment. I initially proposed 20 years imprisonment without an option of fine, especially after seeing cases involving children as young as 5 or 10,” Oshiomhole stated.
However, his proposal was overturned by a majority vote in the chamber.
