A heated debate unfolded in the Senate on Tuesday as Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan clashed over the proposed Criminal Code Amendment Bill.
The bill, which originated from the House of Representatives and was presented for concurrence by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, seeks to impose stricter penalties for aiding or procuring abortions, with punishments increasing from three to ten years’ imprisonment.
According to the proposed amendment, the punishment for anyone found guilty of supplying drugs or instruments to facilitate an abortion would increase from three years to ten years’ imprisonment—without an option of a fine.
The bill also aims to align Nigeria’s Criminal Code Act with evolving social, moral, and medical realities.
Saliu Mustapha, senator representing Kwara central, argued that abortion could be medically or religiously justified in certain situations and should not automatically be treated as a crime.
Abdul Ningi, senator representing Bauchi central, also raised concerns that the proposed amendment might discourage doctors from providing essential medical advice or interventions in life-threatening situations.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, attempted to contribute to the debate, citing her experience as a woman and mother.
However, Akpabio ruled her out of order, citing Senate rules.
Adams Oshiomhole supported Akpabio’s decision, warning that allowing Akpoti-Uduaghan to speak would set a bad precedent.
Akpoti-Uduaghan expressed disappointment, feeling excluded from a crucial conversation on women’s rights and health.
She intends to contribute when the bill reaches the committee stage.
This incident follows previous tensions between Akpoti-Uduaghan and Akpabio, including a seat allocation dispute and allegations of sexual advances.
Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended from the Senate for six months in March for gross misconduct, a decision later deemed invalid by a Federal High Court.