HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES WITHDRAWS CONTROVERSIAL COUNTER SUBVERSION BILL

Following public backlash and calls for a nationwide protest, Nigeria’s Federal House of
Representatives has withdrawn a controversial counter subversion bill which it earlier
raised.
The bill prescribes a 10 year jail term, a fine of N5million or both for persons who fail to
recite the national anthem and pledge.
C- Advocate reports that the Counter Subversion Bill 2024 topped discussions on
social media on Tuesday after it scaled through the first reading and proceeded
to the second.


It aims to impose stringent penalties on Nigerians who fail to recite the newly
approved national anthem or abuse politicians or community leaders.
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, withdrew the Bill
and other related draft legislations following widespread public concern.
This is contained in a statement issued by the Special Adviser on Media and
Publicity to the Speaker, Musa Krishi, on Wednesday.


Krishi said the decision was taken 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 and
the fundamental human rights.


The statement read, “In response to the voices and concerns of the people, the
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, has decided to
withdraw the Counter Subversion Bill and other related draft legislation.
“ His decision to withdraw the bill reflects his commitment to ensuring that the
House of Representatives remains a true representation of the people’s will.
“ 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,”
Krishi 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.

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