Akpabio opposes decriminalisation of suicide attempts, says suicide attempt survivors should be jailed

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has opposed plans to decriminalise attempted suicide in Nigeria, insisting that individuals who survive suicide attempts should face imprisonment.

According to Vanguard, Akpabio expressed his position on Tuesday as a suicide prevention bill passed its second reading in the Senate.

“If you attempt suicide, make sure you die. Anyone who attempts and fails will go to jail,” Akpabio said.

The bill, sponsored by Senator Ekpenyong Asuquo, seeks to replace criminal punishment with medical treatment, psychological support and suicide prevention services.

Asuquo argued that existing provisions of the Criminal Code and Penal Code contradict the National Mental Health Act, which recognises suicide attempts as psychiatric emergencies.

“The police station or correctional facility should not be the default destination for a person who requires urgent clinical care,” he said.

Senator Dayo Faduyile supported decriminalisation, stressing that survivors require treatment rather than imprisonment.

The bill was referred to the Senate committees on Health and Judiciary for further legislative consideration and review.