Speaker Abbas Withdraws Counter Subversion Bill

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, has withdrawn the Counter Subversion Bill and other related draft legislations.

Abbas in a statement by his special adviser on media and publicity, Musa Krishi, said the action was in response to concerns of Nigerians.

The Counter Subversion Bill stipulated that Nigerians who refuse to recite the national anthem would be liable to 10 years imprisonment, or N5m fine, or both.  It also sought to punish anyone who professes loyalty to an organisation that disregards the country’s sovereignty with four years imprisonment or a fine of N3 million.

The speaker which defending the bill earlier, said it was all-encompassing as it related to Nigeria’s national security and did not target any group or section of the country.

According to Abbas’ spokesma, the decision to withdraw the bill followed extensive consultations with stakeholders and a careful consideration of the nation’s current circumstances.

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“Speaker Abbas Tajudeen 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,” the statement added.