Reps Withdraw Controversial Bill Proposing 10-Year Jail Term for Refusing to Recite National Anthem
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, has formally withdrawn the contentious Counter Subversion Bill, which proposed a ₦5 million fine, a 10-year prison sentence, or both for individuals who refuse to recite the reinstated national anthem.
This decision was confirmed in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Speaker’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Krishi.
In an earlier statement, the Speaker had clarified that the bill would pass through legislative procedures but failed to deny whether the proposed punishment, as reported, was false.
The proposed bill had sparked significant public backlash, with concerns raised that it could infringe on civil liberties. Bowing to pressure, the Speaker has now withdrawn the bill.
“In response to the concerns raised by the public, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, has decided to withdraw the Counter Subversion Bill and related legislation,” the statement read. “This decision underscores the Speaker’s commitment to ensuring that the House of Representatives reflects the will of the people.”
Krishi further emphasized that the Speaker’s move demonstrates his dedication to national unity and peace.
“Speaker Abbas Tajudeen remains committed to listening to the voices of the citizens and ensuring that the legislative process upholds the interests of the people. The decision to withdraw this bill is a testament to his pledge to protect the peace and stability of our nation.”
The bill, which had recently passed its first reading and was headed for further debate, proposed fines of up to ₦5 million and prison terms of five to ten years for those found guilty of refusing to recite the national anthem or engaging in behavior deemed disrespectful to politicians and leaders.
