Lawyer faults Akpabio over jail term view for suicide survivors

Human rights lawyer Pelumi Olajengbesi has criticized Senate President Godswill Akpabio for advocating jail terms for those who have survived suicide attempts. In a Facebook post, Olajengbesi argued that punishing survivors is counterproductive and may hinder their access to much-needed mental health support. He stated, "Our leaders need to demonstrate more empathy.

Suggesting that anyone attempting suicide should ensure they die is deeply disturbing." Olajengbesi maintained that Nigeria should prioritize care and recovery, rather than punishment, for those who have survived such attempts. He noted that the Suicide Act 1961 decriminalised suicide in England and Wales, ending prosecution of survivors, and proposed that Nigeria should adopt a similar approach.

Olajengbesi expressed concern that prison terms for survivors could exacerbate their distress. He called for leadership to show compassion and address underlying causes of distress, including economic hardship, trauma, isolation and mental health challenges.