From Ndubuisi Orji, Abuja
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas has withdrawn the Counter Subversion Bill, which was introduced in the House on July 23.
Abbas, in a statement by his Special Adviser, Media and Publicity, Musa Abdullahi Krishi, said the withdrawal of the bill and other related proposed legislation is a result of extensive consultation with stakeholders.
The bill, which was exclusively reported by Daily Sun, on Tuesday, prescribes 25-year imprisonment or N10 million fine, or both, for any person convicted for making statements or taking an action that leads to separatist agitation or inter-group or sectional conflict in the country.
The proposed legislation, sponsored by Abbas, states that any person who mounts an illegal roadblock, engages in illegal road traffic function, imposition of illegal curfew, conduct of illegal procession, shall, on conviction, be liable to a fine of N2 million or five years jail term or both.
Also, the bill states a fine of N5 million or 10 years imprisonment or both for any person convicted of destroying national symbols, refusing to recite the national anthem and pledge, defacing or abusing a place of worship with intent “to cause violence and subvert the Government of Nigeria. ”
However, the proposed legislation has been generating concern in the polity. The speaker, in an earlier statement, also signed by Krishi, on Monday morning, said the parliament was open to a robust debate on the bill.
The withdrawal statement reads: “This decision follows his extensive consultations with a broad range of stakeholders and a careful consideration of the nation’s current circumstances.
“Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, a champion of the people’s interests, 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.”
