Breaking: Senate Approves 10-Year Passport Seizure For Citizens Convicted Overseas

On Tuesday, the Senate advanced a bill that seeks to revoke the international passports of Nigerians convicted of crimes abroad for a period of 10 years following the completion of their sentences.

Sponsored by Senator Abubakar Bello (Niger North), the bill proposes amendments to the Passport (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act to enforce stricter penalties on Nigerians who engage in criminal activities overseas. Lawmakers stated that the legislation is aimed at restoring Nigeria’s global reputation and demonstrating that the country will not tolerate actions that bring it into disrepute.

During the Senate debate, Senator Onawo Ogwoshi, speaking on behalf of the bill’s sponsor, described the proposal as “imperative and long overdue.” He stressed that the law would serve as a deterrent against misconduct abroad that continues to tarnish the image of law-abiding Nigerians.

“Innocent and patriotic Nigerians endure harassment at airports, visa denials, and constant suspicion due to the actions of a few,” Ogwoshi said. “The green passport, once a symbol of pride, is now widely disrespected. This is nothing short of a national emergency.”

The lawmaker highlighted the damage to Nigeria’s global standing caused by repeated incidents involving its citizens abroad and emphasized the need for decisive action to restore confidence in the nation’s identity.

Under the proposed amendments, any Nigerian convicted of a criminal offence abroad would have their international passport confiscated for 10 years after serving their sentence. The bill empowers relevant agencies, including the Nigeria Immigration Service and the Ministry of Interior, to enforce the restriction and maintain a database of offenders to ensure compliance.

“The purpose of this bill is not to stigmatize Nigerians but to safeguard the dignity of those who represent the best of our country,” Ogwoshi explained. Senators supporting the measure argued that it would help reverse the negative perception surrounding the Nigerian passport and send a message of accountability internationally.

“This measure will punish wrongdoers and reassure the global community that Nigeria is committed to discipline, integrity, and reform,” a senator added during the session.

The bill received widespread cross-party support, with many lawmakers praising it as a proactive step toward restoring national pride and rebuilding trust internationally. It has now been referred to the Senate Committee on Interior for further legislative review and is expected to undergo public hearings in the coming weeks.