Senate passes bill imposing 10-year passport ban on Nigerians convicted abroad
Story by Susan Mbamah
In a bid to restore Nigeria’s global reputation, the Senate on Tuesday moved forward with a bill that would impose a minimum 10-year ban on the international passports of Nigerians convicted of crimes overseas.
The proposed legislation, sponsored by Senator Abubakar Bello (Niger North), seeks to amend the Passport (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act.
As News Point Nigeria reports, the amendment introduces stringent penalties specifically designed to discourage criminal behavior by Nigerians abroad and help mend the damaged image of the Nigerian passport.
Leading the debate on the Senate floor on behalf of the sponsor, Senator Onawo Ogwoshi stressed that the bill is “imperative and compelling,” serving as a strong deterrent to anyone harming Nigeria’s international reputation through criminal acts.
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Lamenting the current state, Senator Ogwoshi stated: “Innocent and patriotic Nigerians suffer harassment in airports, visa denials and constant suspicion simply because of the actions of a few, the green passport, once a symbol of pride, is now widely disrespected.
That is nothing less than a state of emergency.”
Under the terms of the bill, a Nigerian convicted of a crime in any foreign country would have their passport withdrawn for a period of ten years starting after they complete their sentence.
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Lawmakers contend that this measure will not only punish those who commit offenses but also demonstrate to the international community Nigeria’s firm commitment to accountability.
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