Speaker Abbas Withdraws Counter Subversion Bill

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 Abbas Tajudeen, has officially withdrawn the Counter Subversion Bill and related draft legislations.

In a statement issued by his special adviser on media and publicity, Musa Krishi, Abbas explained that the decision was made in response to concerns raised by Nigerians.

The Counter Subversion Bill had proposed penalties for Nigerians who refuse to recite the national anthem, including a 10-year prison sentence, a fine of N5 million, or both. It also sought to impose a four-year prison sentence or a fine of N3 million on anyone who expresses loyalty to an organization that disregards Nigeria’s sovereignty.

Initially, the speaker defended the bill, emphasizing that it was comprehensive and focused on national security, without targeting any specific group or section of the country.

However, following extensive consultations with stakeholders and careful consideration of the current national climate, Abbas decided to withdraw the bill.

“Speaker Abbas Tajudeen has always prioritized listening to the citizens and fostering unity,” the statement read. “His decision reflects his commitment to ensuring that the House remains truly the people’s house.”

The speaker acknowledged the concerns and the attention the bill had attracted, stressing that he would never support any action that could disrupt the peace and unity of the nation.

The public was informed of the official withdrawal of the Counter Subversion Bill and the other related legislation, which had been introduced on July 23, 2024.