Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbass, has withdrawn the controversial counter subversion bill.
In a statement from Musa Abdullahi Krishi, his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, on Wednesday, Abass said, “In response to the voices and concerns of the people, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D., has decided to withdraw the Counter Subversion Bill and other related draft legislation.
“This decision follows his extensive consultations with a broad range of stakeholders and a careful consideration of the nation’s current circumstances.
“He acknowledges the significance of the concerns raised and the attention the Bill has garnered, reaffirming that he will never support any action that might disrupt the peace and unity of our nation.
“The public is hereby notified of the withdrawal of the Counter Subversion Bill and other related ones introduced on July 23, 2024.”
Ekweanaedo reported that the House of Representatives had introduced the Counter Subversion Bill 2024.
This proposed legislation stipulates that individuals found guilty of failing to recite the national anthem will face severe penalties, including a fine of N5 million, a 10-year prison sentence, or both
Additionally, the proposed legislation stipulates that individuals who vandalise or destroy national symbols or places of worship shall face identical penalties, including a fine of N5 million, a 10-year prison sentence, or both.
The Bill, sponsored by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, which is set for its second reading, where its general principles will be debated, “stipulates that anyone found guilty of destroying national symbols, refusing to recite the national anthem and pledge, defacing a place of worship with intent to incite violence, or undermining the Federal Government shall face a fine of N5 million, a 10-year prison sentence, or both”.
The Bill also “states that anyone who sets up an illegal roadblock, performs unauthorised traffic duties, imposes an illegal curfew, or organises an unlawful procession will be subject to a fine of N5 million, five years in prison, or both upon conviction”.
Omoyele Sowore, a former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC) in the 2023 general elections, earlier described the bill as “buffoonery” and predicted that it will lead to an earlier-than-expected resurgence of the #EndBadGovernance movement.
