- Tajudeen Abbas, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, bowed to pressure, and withdrew the Counter Subversion Bill and other related ones
- The proposed bill faced intense criticism, due to its harsh penalties, such as a provision mandating a 10-year imprisonment, a N5 million fine, or both, for those who refuse to recite the national anthem and pledge
- Oby Ezekwesili, the former Minister of Education, criticised the proposed bill as a foolish notion that showed how disconnected and irrelevant the lawmakers are to Nigeria's current realities
Following widespread public criticism, Tajudeen Abbas, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, has withdrawn the Counter Subversion Bill and other related ones introduced on July 23, 2024.
The announcement, made on Wednesday, August 14, in a press statement by Musa Krishi, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Speaker, was said to follow extensive consultations with stakeholders and a thorough analysis of the country's current situation.
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.”
The proposed bill faced strong criticism, largely due to its harsh penalties, such as a provision mandating a 10-year imprisonment, a N5 million fine, or both, for those who refuse to recite the national anthem and pledge. It also suggested severe consequences for damaging national symbols, among other provisions.
Social media platforms were flooded with outrage over the bill, leading to widespread calls for its retraction. Many critics argued that the proposed measures were excessive and infringed on fundamental rights.
Ezekwesili criticised the proposed legislation as a foolish notion
Reacting to the bill, Oby Ezekwesili, the former Minister of Education, criticised the proposed legislation as a foolish notion, that shows how disconnected and irrelevant the lawmakers are to Nigeria's current realities.
She said, “I am certain that the Speaker of the @HouseNGR @Speaker_Abbas @nassnigeria knows this for a fact. Surely, he must know that the so-called #CounterSubversionBill which he introduced- and alleged to be in its second reading – is a silly flight of fancy that further reveals how unserious and irrelevant the lawmakers are to the Nigerian condition.
“I for example have kept my public statement and only stand and sing the REAL Nigerian National Anthem (Arise O Compatriots), never the Colonial and “tribal” one that he and his colleagues conspired with @NGRPresident and kangarooed into “law” in violation of Constitutional processes. Get ready to “prosecute” me when you pass your noxious #CounterSubversionBill into an Act.
“But before then, please note that if there is any group of Nigerians that deserve a Subversion Act, it is you and your colleagues at the @nassnigeria who consistently subverts the progress of Nigeria and her people through your legendary public misdemeanors that accumulate into Bad Governance.
“Your citizens have spoken up in unison, asking you and your colleagues in the Executive and Judicial Arms to #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria . You obviously have still not heard the ticking chimes of time. Continue with your irrelevancies while the country totters. Continue if it pays you.”
Bill's withdrawal highlights Tajudeen’s commitment to peace - Krishi
Despite the criticism, Abbas initially defended the bill, stating that it was in its introductory stage and aimed to strengthen Nigeria’s anti-terrorism framework. He emphasised that the bill sought to address subversive activities conducted by various groups, including associations, organisations, militias, cults, bandits, and other proscribed entities.
However, the strong public opposition eventually led to the decision to pull back the bill.
Krishi emphasised that the bill's withdrawal highlights Tajudeen’s commitment to opposing any legislation that might jeopardise 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.
Nigerians react as bill proposing single 6-year term for president, governors passes 1st reading
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that a bill seeking to amend the 1999 constitution to allow presidents and governors to serve for a six-year single term had passed the first reading at the House of Representatives.
Nigerians reacted to the bill, expressed their anger at the lawmakers for even thinking about the idea. While some condemn the bill, others believe the lawmakers should focus on other important issues.