House of Reps drop controversial bill amidst public backlash

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, has withdrawn the controversial Counter Subversion Bill following widespread outrage and opposition to its provisions

The bill, which was set for its second reading, stipulated harsh penalties, including a N5 million fine and 10-year prison sentence, for offenses such as refusing to recite the national anthem, destroying national symbols, and undermining the Federal Government.

According to Daily Trust, the proposed legislation was widely criticized for its draconian and anti-democratic provisions, prompting the Speaker to reconsider.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Abdullahi Krishi, the Speaker announced the withdrawal of the bill, citing his commitment to listening to the concerns of the people and prioritizing unity.

The statement read: “In response to the voices and concerns of the people, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D., has decided to withdraw the Counter Subversion Bill and other related draft legislation… 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.”

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