In a decisive move to tackle the nation's escalating security crisis, the Nigerian Senate has officially classified kidnapping as an act of terrorism. During its plenary on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, the upper legislative chamber resolved to amend the Terrorism Act to impose the maximum death penalty on any individual convicted of kidnapping.
Legislative Action and New Legal Framework
The Senate explained that under the proposed amendment, the death penalty would become a mandatory sentence once a kidnapping conviction is secured. This resolution marks one of the most severe legislative responses to the rampant kidnappings plaguing various parts of the country.
This legislative action comes against a backdrop of persistent violent attacks by bandits who frequently raid villages, kill residents, and abduct people for ransom. The situation has created a state of fear and instability in many communities.
Recent Wave of Abductions Across States
The urgency of the Senate's decision is underscored by a series of recent kidnappings. On Monday, November 24, bandits attacked Biresawa village in Tsanyawa local government area of Kano state, abducting at least eight persons.
Sources familiar with the incident revealed that the attackers raided the village between 11 pm and midnight. Kabiru Usman, a relative of one victim, disclosed that the assailants entered through the neighbouring village of Tsundu. "We tried to stop the assailants, but their weapons were more powerful because they were carrying guns," Usman stated.
In a separate incident, the Niger state government expressed "deep sadness" over the kidnapping of pupils at St. Mary’s School in Agwara local government area. According to Abubakar Usman, the Secretary to the State Government, the incident occurred despite an intelligence report indicating an increased threat level in parts of the Niger North senatorial district.
Usman confirmed that the government had previously directed the suspension of construction activities and the temporary closure of boarding schools in the district as a precaution. He added that security agencies have commenced investigation and rescue operations.
Public Reaction and Security Implications
Last week also witnessed the kidnapping of church worshippers in Kwara state and students in Kebbi state, though the government has since secured the release of these abductees.
While the Senate's development has been commended by many, it has also sparked questions from some Nigerians. Citizens are asking why security forces have been unable to arrest and prosecute kidnappers through the existing legal system, rather than merely securing releases after negotiations.
The Senate's resolution to treat kidnapping as a form of terrorism represents a significant shift in Nigeria's legal approach to combating insecurity. The proposed amendment to the Terrorism Act, once finalized, is expected to establish a stringent new legal framework for prosecuting kidnapping offenses nationwide.
