In a bid to restore Nigeria’s global reputation, the Senate has advanced a bill proposing that citizens convicted of crimes abroad be stripped of their international passports for a minimum of ten years.
The bill, sponsored by Senator Abubakar Bello (Niger North), seeks to amend the existing Passport Act by introducing stricter penalties aimed at deterring criminal conduct among Nigerians overseas and upholding the integrity of the nation’s passport.
Leading the debate on behalf of the sponsor, Senator Onawo Ogwoshi described the bill as both imperative and compelling, stressing that it would serve as a strong deterrent to those tarnishing Nigeria’s image through criminal activities abroad.
Senator Ogwoshi lamented that law-abiding Nigerians often face undue scrutiny, visa denials, and harassment at international borders due to the actions of a few.
Lawmakers maintained that the proposed legislation would hold offenders accountable while sending a clear message that Nigeria is committed to protecting its global image and ensuring responsible conduct among its citizens worldwide.
Written by Gladys Haruna