LAAF Writes Attorney General to Decriminalize Suicide in Nigeria

Halima Layeni, Executive Director of the Life After Abuse Foundation (LAAF) and a prominent advocate for men’s mental health, has called on the Nigerian government to decriminalize suicide attempts. In an open letter addressed to the Attorney General of the Federation, Honourable Lateef Fagbemi, Layeni emphasized the need for health-focused interventions rather than criminal penalties.

Drawing comparisons to countries like India, Canada, and New Zealand, which have already decriminalized suicide attempts, Layeni stated, “These nations recognize that those who attempt suicide require support, not imprisonment.”

Under Nigeria’s current law, specifically Section 327 of the Criminal Code, attempting suicide can lead to imprisonment for up to one year. Layeni criticized this law as outdated and ineffective in addressing the mental health crisis in Nigeria. She argued, “Criminalizing suicide attempts perpetuates suffering, pushing individuals further into silence and shame rather than offering them the treatment and support they need.”

Highlighting the disproportionate impact of the suicide crisis on men, Layeni noted that men are often pressured to conform to societal expectations of masculinity, suppressing their emotions and avoiding seeking help for mental health issues. This leads to higher rates of depression and suicide among Nigerian men. “Rather than receiving compassion and support, these men risk being labelled as criminals under the current law,” she added.

Layeni also pointed out that the criminalization of suicide is a violation of human rights, referencing Article 5 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and Article 12 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights. Both emphasize the right to dignity, health, and mental well-being. “Punishing someone for attempting suicide disregards their fundamental right to access the care they need,” Layeni stated.

She concluded by urging the government to shift its perspective on suicide from a legal issue to a medical one. “Suicide is not a crime; it is a symptom of profound mental health distress. Those who attempt suicide do not need punishment—they need mental health care, compassion, and a system that prioritizes their well-being.”

Layeni’s appeal reflects the growing global movement to view mental health through a compassionate and medical lens, rather than resorting to outdated punitive measures.