SENATE CONSIDERS BILL TO REVOKE PASSPORTS OF NIGERIANS CONVICTED ABROAD FOR 10 YEARS

Read Time:1 Minute, 16 Second

By Aishat Momoh. O.

The Senate on Tuesday debated a bill seeking to revoke the international passports of Nigerians convicted of crimes overseas for a minimum period of ten years after serving their sentences.

The proposed legislation, sponsored by Senator Abubakar Bello (Niger North), aims to amend the Passport (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act as part of efforts to safeguard Nigeria’s international image and restore global respect for the nation’s travel document.

Leading the debate on behalf of the sponsor, Senator Onawo Ogwoshi (Nasarawa South) said the bill was both punitive and deterrent, designed to discourage Nigerians from engaging in criminal activities abroad that tarnish the country’s reputation.

According to him, the measure is long overdue, given the increasing instances of Nigerians being profiled or harassed at foreign airports due to the misconduct of a few.

“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,” Ogwoshi said.

The bill proposes that any Nigerian convicted of a criminal offence in a foreign country will have their international passport withdrawn for ten years following the completion of their sentence.

Supporters of the bill argued that the amendment would demonstrate Nigeria’s commitment to accountability, strengthen diplomatic relations, and help rebuild trust with international partners.

The proposed legislation has been referred to the Senate Committee on Interior for further consideration and report.