Counter Subversion Bill: Reps Speaker bows to pressure, withdraws draft legislation

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, has withdrawn the Counter Subversion Bill and other related draft legislations following widespread public concern.

The decision was announced in a press statement on Wednesday, after extensive consultations with various stakeholders and a careful assessment of the nation’s current circumstances.

The Counter Subversion Bill, which was introduced on July 23, 2024, sparked public debate and raised concerns about its potential impact on civil liberties.

The bill aimed to impose stringent penalties on Nigerians who fail to recite the newly approved national anthem or abuse politicians or community leaders.

Recall that the Counter Subversion Bill 2024 went viral on social media on Tuesday after it scaled through the first reading and proceeded to the second. So far, it has stirred significant controversy.

The Counter Subversion Bill 2024 includes several stringent measures designed to address what the bill terms as subversive activities that threaten national security. Among the most notable provisions are severe penalties for various offences. For example, individuals who fail to recite the national anthem or pledge could face a fine of up to N5 million, a prison sentence ranging from five to ten years, or both.

Another significant provision targets the destruction of national symbols. Those found guilty of destroying such symbols or defacing places of worship with the intent to incite violence could be subjected to a fine of N5 million, a ten-year prison sentence, or both. The bill also seeks to penalise unauthorised activities, such as setting up illegal roadblocks, conducting unauthorised traffic duties, imposing illegal curfews, or organising unlawful processions. Offenders could face fines of up to N2 million and imprisonment for up to five years.

The bill also addresses the issue of insulting leadership. Insulting, defaming, or bringing disrepute to community, religious, or government leaders could result in a fine of N4 million or a two-year prison term. Engaging in activities that threaten national security, such as fostering mistrust or violence, could incur a fine of N5 million and a ten-year prison term.

In addition, the bill imposes penalties for illegal occupation of public or private spaces, such as worship centres and schools. Those who forcefully occupy these areas could face a fine of N5 million or up to ten years in prison. The bill also criminalises the act of pledging loyalty to or supporting organisations that disregard Nigeria’s sovereignty, with penalties including a fine of N3 million or a four-year prison term.

Foreign interference is another major focus of the bill. Receiving financial or political support from foreign entities that conflict with Nigeria’s interests could lead to a fine of N15 million or a twenty-year prison term. Additionally, the bill targets activities that undermine national security and community harmony, with penalties including a fine of N3 million and up to five years in prison.

Lastly, the bill addresses disobedience to authority, stipulating that persistent disobedience or disrespect towards constituted authority could result in a three-year prison sentence for the first offence and seven years for subsequent offences, or a fine of N5 million.

In response to the public outcry over the bill, Speaker Abbas had at first defended the legislation, asserting that its primary goal is to bolster Nigeria’s anti-terrorism framework and counter subversive activities. He pointed to similar laws in countries such as the United Kingdom, Spain, and Canada as precedents. Abbas emphasised that the House of Representatives is committed to public engagement and is open to feedback from Nigerians as the bill advances.

On Wednesday, however, a press statement noted that the withdrawal of the bill underscores Tajudeen’s pledge to never support any legislation that could potentially disrupt the peace and unity of the nation.

“Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, a champion of the people’s interests, has always prioritised 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,” he added.