The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, has rescinded the Counter Subversion Bill and other related proposed laws upon widespread condemnation from Nigerians.
This was made known in a statement issued by the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Speaker, Musa Krishi on Wednesday.
According to the statement, Hon. Tajuddeen withdrew the Bill after extensive consultations with various stakeholders and a careful assessment of the nation’s current circumstances.
It would be recalled that the Counter Subversion Bill was introduced on July 23, 2024, and thus generated heated conversation and raised alarms about its potential to erode civil rights.
“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 statement reads.
It disclosed 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,” the statement added.
The proposed legislation, which has passed its first reading seeks to enact harsh punishments for Nigerians who refuse to recite the new national anthem or engage in derogatory speech against politicians or community leaders.
Any individual found guilty according to the bill shall be liable to a fine of up to ₦5 million and/or imprisonment for 5 to 10 years.
