Decision To Abolish Death Penalty Lies With Nigs- Kalu

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, says the decision to abolish the death penalty in Nigeria lies with its citizens.

This submission came amid a global push to abolish the death penalty, with over 130 countries having done so.

Speaking during a courtesy visit in Abuja by a delegation from the Death Penalty Project led by officials from the British High Commission, Kalu acknowledged diverse opinions on the matter and emphasized the need for robust debate and collaboration among stakeholders.

The Deputy Speaker who noted that the Country’s legal framework allows for capital punishment for offenses like murder, armed robbery, and treason explained that the Constitution Review Committee which he chairs, has examined the implications of the death penalty and is considering a bill to address the issue.

Kalu cited global trends toward abolition, noting that the African continent is advancing toward abolition more rapidly than any other region.

He expressed his intention to present a bill for debate and public input, aiming to create a justice system that is equitable, effective, and respectful of human rights.

Earlier, the leader of the Delegation, who is the Co-founder and Co-Executive of the Death Penalty Project’s Saul LeurFeund, said the visit was to seek parliamentary collaboration on the potential abolition of the death penalty in Nigeria.

Oduyemi Odumade, Edited By Grace Namiji