Attempted Suicide Survivors Need Care, Not Prison

I believe Nigeria should replace punishment for attempted suicide with medical assessment, treatment, rehabilitation and crisis support. The Suicide Prevention Bill 2026, which has passed second reading in the Senate, seeks to remove the conflict between mental-health policy and criminal provisions that prescribe imprisonment. Senate President Godswill Akpabio’s remarks during the debate have sparked criticism, particularly his suggestion that anyone who attempts suicide should succeed or face prison. I argue that such comments are insensitive to people facing severe psychological, social and economic distress. Mental-health advocates say criminalising attempted suicide discourages vulnerable people from seeking help. Nigeria’s reported suicide burden and the pressures of poverty, insecurity, unemployment, relationship breakdown and other crises make compassionate intervention more urgent. Religious beliefs may regard suicide as wrong, but I maintain that survivors need support, not further stigma or incarceration. Lawmakers should prioritise prevention, accessible mental-health care and policies that address the conditions pushing Nigerians towards despair.

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