MPs to debate a petition relating to Nigeria and the sanctions regime

The debate will be led by Petitions Committee member Theresa Villiers MP. MPs from all parties can take part, and a Minister from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office will respond on behalf of the Government. 

Implement sanctions against the Nigerian Government and officials 

The petition, which has more than 219,000 signatures, states: “The Government should explore using the new sanctions regime that allows individuals and entities that violate human rights around the world to be targeted, to impose sanctions on members of the Nigerian government and police force involved in any human rights abuses by the Nigerian police.” 

In response to the petition, the Government said: “We were concerned by violence during recent protests and await the outcome of Nigerian investigations into reports of police brutality. We do not publicly speculate on future sanctions designations”. 

What are petitions debates? 

Petitions debates are 'general' debates which allow MPs from all parties to discuss the important issues raised by one or more petitions, and put their concerns to Government Ministers. 

Get involved 

Follow the Committee on Twitter and join the discussion using #NigeriaPetitionDebate 

Further information 

• Find out more about the role of the Petitions Committee 
• Find out more about select committees 

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