Mental Health and Suicide: At the Crossroad of a Static Law

Abstract

Historically, mental health has been clothed in secrecy in Nigeria. The mentally ill were sequestrated, disregarding their rights. Often victimized, they become suicidal without societal empathy and legal protection. Mental health law remains static, a Colonial legacy. Changing needs of society, socio-economic vicissitudes/depression affected the mental state of many Nigerians, which subsequently drove some to attempt suicide. Under the moribund Lunacy Act 1958, the Criminal and Penal Codes 2004, attempted suicide is criminalised, further exacerbating the psychological state of the suicidal. Government is reluctant to amend the Lunacy Act, along extant societal reality. This article examines the historical and social antecedents of the Lunacy Act, its relevance to mental healthcare; the socio-cultural factors impeding its amendment; and the Mental Health Act Bill. It concludes that these laws do not secure constitutionally guaranteed social responsibility of government. Nigeria has reached a crossroad. Citizens must demand that Government ensure reform of the mental health law.