The Counter Subversion Bill 2024, introduced by the Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbasi, is advancing to its second reading, where its general principles will be discussed. ..Read Full Article
This new bill proposes stringent penalties for Nigerians who refuse to recite the national anthem. If passed, those found guilty could face a 10-year prison sentence, a fine of N5 million, or both.
Sponsored by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, the bill also includes penalties for related offenses. It targets individuals who destroy national symbols, deface places of worship with the intent to incite violence, or undermine the Federal Government, imposing similar penalties on violators.
The bill further addresses illegal activities such as setting up unauthorized roadblocks, performing unapproved traffic duties, imposing illegal curfews, or organizing unlawful processions. Offenders could face a fine of N2 million, up to five years in prison, or both.
Additionally, the bill penalizes those who forcibly take over public or private spaces, with a fine of N5 million or 10 years in prison. Anyone pledging loyalty to organizations that disregard Nigeria’s sovereignty could face a fine of N3 million or four years in prison.
This legislation comes after President Bola Tinubu signed a bill reinstating Nigeria’s old national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” originally written by Lillian Jean Williams in 1959 and composed by Frances Berda. The anthem, re-adopted in May, replaces the version introduced by a military government in 1978.
The Counter Subversion Bill 2024 is now set for its second reading in the House, where its implications and scope will be thoroughly debated.
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