If You Attempt Suicide, Make Sure You Die. Anyone Who Attempts And Fails Will Go To Jail- Akpabio

According to a report by Daily Post on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, the Nigerian Senate has passed for second reading a bill seeking to decriminalise attempted suicide, establish a national suicide prevention framework and provide rehabilitation for survivors, despite opposition from Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who maintained that attempted suicide should remain punishable by imprisonment.

The proposed legislation, sponsored by Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, representing Cross River South Senatorial District, aims to address inconsistencies in Nigeria’s existing laws regarding suicide attempts.

The bill seeks to introduce a comprehensive national framework for preventing suicide while ensuring that individuals who survive suicide attempts receive appropriate care, support and rehabilitation rather than face criminal prosecution.

However, Akpabio expressed reservations about the proposed legislation, insisting that individuals who attempt suicide without succeeding should still face jail terms.

The Senate President’s position contrasts with the bill’s objective of shifting the country’s approach towards suicide attempts from criminal punishment to prevention, treatment and rehabilitation.

During deliberations, Ekpenyong highlighted the legal complexities surrounding the issue, noting that relevant provisions exist under both the Criminal Code and the Penal Code.

He explained that addressing the matter would require careful consideration and contributions from state Houses of Assembly to prevent conflicts between existing laws and the proposed legislation.

Akpabio, while expressing his opposition to the proposal, said: “If you attempt suicide, make sure you die. Anyone who attempts and fails will go to jail.”

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