Supporters argue that the threat of execution would act as a more potent deterrent to drug traffickers than life imprisonment, while opponents contend that the death penalty is irreversible and that the possibility of wrongful convictions exists.

The Senate of Nigeria has put forward proposals to substantially increase penalties for drug trafficking, with the death penalty being suggested as the new maximum sentence. If approved, this amendment will replace the previous harshest punishment of life imprisonment. Nigeria, the most populous country in Africa with over 200 million inhabitants, has seen a shift in recent years from being merely a transit point for illegal drugs to becoming a significant producer, consumer, and distributor.

Opioid abuse, particularly involving tramadol and cough syrups containing codeine, has been pervasive across Nigeria, as reported by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control. In response, the agency banned the production and importation of codeine cough syrup in 2018.

While cannabis is cultivated domestically, cocaine, methamphetamine, and other narcotics are trafficked through the country alongside opioids, exacerbating a growing addiction crisis.

The legislative action arose from a report presented by Senator Mohammed Monguno during Thursday's plenary session, based on findings by the Senate committees on judiciary, human rights and legal matters, and drugs and narcotics.

Supporters contended that the prospect of execution would act as a more potent deterrent for drug traffickers compared to life imprisonment.

However, lawmakers who opposed the measure voiced concerns about the irreversible nature of the death penalty and the potential for wrongful convictions.

Previously, the House of Representatives approved the bill without including a death penalty provision. Now, five chosen members from both the Senate and the House will need to reconcile the two versions before it is presented to the president for approval.