Olajengbesi Critiques Akpabio's Stance on Suicide Survivors
Human rights lawyer Pelumi Olajengbesi criticized Senate President Godswill Akpabio for his stance on imposing jail terms for survivors of suicide attempts. In a statement on Facebook, Olajengbesi argued that punishing these individuals is counterproductive and may hinder their access to necessary mental health support.
He referenced the Suicide Act 1961 in England and Wales, which decriminalized suicide, advocating for Nigeria to adopt a similar approach focused on care and recovery. Olajengbesi condemned Akpabio's remarks made during Senate discussions, stating that such insensitivity is unacceptable from someone in his position.
He supported Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong's bill, which seeks to replace criminal penalties with medical assessments and treatment for suicide survivors. The bill aims to address the inconsistencies in Nigeria's legal framework regarding mental health and suicide, proposing early intervention and improved public education.
It has been referred to the Senate Committees on Judiciary and Health for further action.
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