Nigerians React To Bill Seeking Prison Terms For Protesters, Those Insulting Politicians, Others

Nigerians have vehemently opposed the proposed Counter Subversion Bill 2024, recognising it as a potential threat to the fundamental human rights and freedom in the country.

The Bill, sponsored by Tajudeen Abass, Speaker of the House of Representatives, has sparked outright public rejection and criticism as citizens call for its withdrawal.

As reported by SaharaReporters on Tuesday, the Bill seeks to “impose stringent penalties on individuals involved in separatist agitations or actions that incite inter-group or sectional conflicts.”

It also seeks to punish anyone the government deemed to have undermined its authority by refusing to recite the new national anthem and pledge, destroying the national symbol, or defacing a worship building shall face a fine of N5 million, a 10-year prison sentence, or both.

Moreso, it states that anyone who sets up an illegal roadblock, performs unauthorised traffic duties, imposes an illegal curfew, or organises an unlawful procession will be subject to a fine of N2 million, five years in prison, or both upon conviction.

Meanwhile, in a strongly opposing voice, Nigerians are protesting the controversial Bill, which indicates a call for its immediate withdrawal.

In response to the Bill, @FS_Yusuf, a user on X, asked, “Where is the bill to tackle hunger?”

Another user, @Mbahdeyforyou, wrote, asking, “What about Nigerians (politicians) who loot public funds?” as other Nigerians echo what they perceived to be dictatorship as displayed by the ruling All Progressives Congress party under President Bola Tinubu.

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About The Author

Mayowa Durosinmi

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M. Durosinmi is a West Africa Weekly investigative reporter covering Politics, Human Rights, Health, and Security in West Africa and the Sahel Region

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