A human rights lawyer, Pelumi Olajengbesi, has criticised Senate President Godswill Akpabio over his opposition to the decriminalisation of attempted suicide in Nigeria.

Olajengbesi described the position as insensitive, arguing that survivors of suicide attempts need medical attention and psychological support rather than imprisonment.

In a statement shared on Facebook on Wednesday, the lawyer warned that criminalising attempted suicide could worsen the emotional distress of survivors and discourage them from seeking help.

He called on Nigerian leaders to show compassion and address the underlying causes of psychological distress, including economic hardship, trauma and isolation.

The lawyer also urged the government to prioritise medical assessment, treatment, rehabilitation and accessible mental health services.

The criticism follows Akpabio’s opposition to a bill seeking to replace criminal punishment for attempted suicide with medical treatment and rehabilitation.

The bill, sponsored by Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, was passed for second reading by the Senate on Tuesday.

Ekpenyong argued that Nigeria’s existing laws are inconsistent, as the National Mental Health Act recognises attempted suicide as a psychiatric emergency requiring intervention, while provisions of the Criminal Code and Penal Code still criminalise the act.

The proposed legislation seeks to ensure that survivors receive appropriate medical care, referrals and follow-up support instead of imprisonment.

The bill has been referred to the Senate Committees on Judiciary and Health for further legislative action, including a public hearing.

The report is based on a publication by PUNCH Newspapers on Wednesday, October 14, 2026.