Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, has officially withdrawn the contentious Counter Subversion Bill.
The proposed legislation, which had drawn widespread criticism and opposition, included severe penalties for refusing to recite the Nigerian national anthem, with offenders facing a hefty fine of N5 million or up to 10 years in prison, or both.
The bill, originally scheduled for its second reading, sought to impose strict punishments not only for failing to recite the national anthem but also for other offenses such as destroying national symbols, defacing places of worship, and undermining the authority of the Federal Government.
According to the proposed law, individuals found guilty of these actions could face similar penalties, including a 10-year prison sentence or a fine of N5 million.
Additional provisions of the bill included penalties for setting up illegal roadblocks, performing unauthorized traffic duties, and organizing unlawful processions. Such offenses would carry a fine of N2 million or up to five years in prison.
Furthermore, anyone forcefully taking over public or private spaces, such as places of worship or town halls, would be liable to similar penalties.
However, the bill’s extreme measures led to a public outcry, with many Nigerians describing the proposed legislation as harsh and anti-democratic.
Responding to the overwhelming backlash, Speaker Abbas Tajudeen decided to withdraw the bill. His Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Abdullahi Krishi, confirmed the withdrawal in a statement, emphasizing that the decision was made after extensive consultations with various stakeholders.
The statement partly read, “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.
“Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, a champion of the people’s interests, has always prioritized listening to the citizens and fostering unity. His decision reflects his commitment to ensuring that the House remains truly the People’s House.
“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.”
