The Nigerian Senate has taken steps toward amending the country’s passport laws to enforce a minimum 10-year withdrawal of international passports from Nigerians convicted of crimes abroad. The bill passed second reading on Tuesday during plenary.
Channels News reports that the bill is aimed at addressing growing concerns over the misuse of the country’s passports in foreign countries and restoring international confidence in Nigerian travellers.
The proposed legislation seeks to amend the Passport (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act to include strict penalties for citizens found guilty of crimes outside the country.
New Penalty for Convicted Nigerians Overseas
The bill, sponsored by Senator Abubakar Bello (Niger North), proposes that any citizen convicted in a foreign country will have their passport confiscated for a period of 10 years after completing their sentence. This measure is intended to deter criminal conduct and reduce incidents that negatively affect the country’s global image.
Senator Onawo Ogwoshi, who led the debate on the bill on behalf of the sponsor, stated that the proposal is necessary to address the damage caused by criminal acts committed by a minority of Nigerians abroad.
Ogwoshi said, “Innocent and patriotic citizens suffer harassment in airports, visa denials and constant suspicion simply because of the actions of a few.”
Bill Targets National Image and International Perception
Lawmakers backing the bill argue that it will help protect the integrity of the Nigerian passport and send a message of accountability to the international community. They noted that many law-abiding citizens are often unfairly profiled or denied entry into countries because of a small number of citizens involved in criminal activities.
Ogwoshi added, “The green passport, once a symbol of pride, is now widely disrespected. That is nothing less than a state of emergency.”
He said the proposed changes are part of broader efforts to reform the country’s image globally.
Passport Seizure to Begin After Jail Term
Reports inform that under the provisions of the bill, the passport seizure would not begin until after the offender completes their sentence in the foreign jurisdiction. The bill does not specify the type of crimes that would lead to the penalty, but focuses on any conviction abroad resulting in imprisonment.
The enforcement would be coordinated through relevant Nigerian authorities upon the return of the individual to the country.
Following its second reading, the bill has been referred to the Senate Committee on Interior for further legislative work. The committee is expected to review the provisions in detail and report back to the full Senate for final consideration.
