By peace Udugba
The Senate has passed the second reading of a bill seeking to classify kidnapping and hostage-taking as acts of terrorism—punishable by death, with no option of a fine.
Sponsored by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, the bill aims to serve as a strong deterrent to perpetrators who have turned kidnapping into one of Nigeria’s most lucrative crimes.
Lawmakers also suggested, during public hearings, that sanctions be imposed on financial institutions that aid or facilitate ransom payments.
