Speaker Abbas withdraws bill seeking 10-year jail term for Nigerians not singing national anthem

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has withdrawn the controversial Counter Subversion Bill.

The bill prescribes a 10-year jail term, N5 million fine or both for those who refuse to recite the national anthem and pledge.

The legislation elicited outrage from the public.

In a statement on Wednesday, Musa Krishi, spokesperson of the speaker, said his principal decided to withdraw the bill after “careful consideration”.

“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,” Krishi said.

“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.”