On Tuesday, the Senate advanced the amendment to the Extradition Act of 2004, moving it to the second reading stage.During the discussion led by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti-Central), it was proposed to amend Sections 2(1) and 7(4) of the Act.
Bamidele clarified that the proposed changes in Section 2 aim to broaden the Act’s scope, allowing Nigeria to honour extradition requests from countries with which it has signed treaties, rather than Commonwealth nations, as currently stipulated.
He elaborated, stating that the current provision of the Act limits extradition requests to Commonwealth countries and those with which Nigeria has specific extradition agreements.
Additionally, the proposed adjustment to Section 7 seeks to delineate a clear procedure for issuing arrest warrants to facilitate the effective execution of extradition requests.
Bamidele further explained the significance of extradition law, describing it as the legal framework governing Nigeria’s ability to request and secure the surrender of individuals accused or convicted of crimes outside its jurisdiction.
He emphasized the necessity of amending the Act to align with Nigeria’s international obligations in combating money laundering and terrorism financing, as well as to ensure Nigeria’s removal from the grey list by the International Country Risk Guide through adherence to compliance standards.
The Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau, oversaw the proceedings, during which the bill garnered majority support through a voice vote and was subsequently referred to the Committee on Judiciary and Human Rights.
Both the Senate and the House of Representatives are concurrently addressing the bill.
