Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has stated that the decision to abolish the death penalty in Nigeria ultimately rests with the citizens.
Speaking during a meeting with a delegation from the Death Penalty Project and the British High Commission, Kalu acknowledged the growing global shift towards abolition, noting that over 130 countries have ended capital punishment either in law or practice.
While Nigeria’s current legal framework still permits the death penalty for crimes such as murder, armed robbery, and treason, Kalu emphasized the need for public debate and stakeholder engagement before any reforms are considered.
He revealed that although no bill is currently before the House, the Constitution Review Committee is examining the moral, ethical, and practical implications of capital punishment. A legislative proposal may be introduced soon, allowing Nigerians to have the final say through public hearings.
Kalu also highlighted Nigeria’s abstention from the 2024 UN resolution on a global moratorium on executions, despite increasing international support for abolition.
The delegation, led by Saul Lehrfreund, urged Nigeria to join the global trend, offering technical support to explore potential constitutional amendments.
Kalu reassured that any reforms would ensure a justice system that remains fair, effective, and aligned with human rights principles.
