The Nigerian House of Representatives is on the verge of enacting one of the most stringent legislations in recent history with the introduction of the Counter Subversion Bill 2024. This proposed law aims to combat separatist agitations, inter-group conflicts, and subversive activities that threaten the nation’s unity and security.
The bill, spearheaded by the Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, seeks to impose severe penalties on individuals and groups found guilty of actions that could lead to separatist movements, violence, or threats to Nigeria’s corporate existence. The proposed legislation prescribes a 25-year imprisonment, a fine of N10 million, or both for anyone convicted of making statements or taking actions that incite separatist agitation or inter-group conflicts.
According to the explanatory memorandum, the Counter Subversion Bill is designed to criminalize activities by associations, organizations, militias, cults, bandits, and other proscribed groups that engage in subversive activities. The bill's provisions encompass a broad spectrum of offenses, all aimed at curbing actions that could destabilize the nation.
A key aspect of the bill is the protection of national symbols and the obligation to respect the national anthem and pledge. The bill stipulates a fine of N5 million or a 10-year imprisonment for anyone convicted of destroying national symbols, refusing to recite the national anthem or pledge, or subverting the Federal Government.
The legislation further addresses actions that disrupt public order, such as illegal roadblocks, unauthorized curfews, and illegal processions. Offenders could face up to five years in prison or a fine of N2 million, or both. The bill also seeks to protect the integrity of leadership at all levels. Anyone found guilty of denigrating, embarrassing, or bringing the leadership of a community, religion, lawful group, local government, or the Federal Government into disrepute could be fined N4 million or face two years imprisonment, or both.
The bill criminalizes activities that foster mutual suspicion, mistrust, or intolerance leading to conflict. Convicted individuals could face a fine of N5 million or a 10-year imprisonment, or both. Individuals who forcefully take over places of worship, public or private premises, or similar spaces through duress or subterfuge are liable to a fine of N5 million or a 10-year imprisonment, or both.
The bill targets individuals pledging loyalty to organizations that undermine Nigeria’s sovereignty. Convicted persons could face a fine of N3 million or a four-year imprisonment, or both. A particularly noteworthy provision is the criminalization of receiving financial or political support from foreign entities not aligned with Nigeria’s interests. Convicted offenders could face a fine of N15 million or a 20-year imprisonment, or both.
The legislation further prescribes penalties for actions undermining national security and peaceful coexistence. Individuals convicted of such offenses could be fined N3 million or face five years in prison, or both. The bill imposes penalties for persistent disobedience or disrespect towards constituted authorities. Offenders face three years imprisonment for a first offense and seven years for subsequent offenses, along with a fine of N5 million or both. The bill also targets the creation and operation of unauthorized paramilitary groups. Convicted individuals could face a fine of N10 million or 15 years imprisonment, or both.
The bill penalizes the illegal construction of structures and the unauthorized possession of military or police uniforms. Offenders could be fined N1 million or face three years imprisonment for illegal construction, and N2 million or two years imprisonment for unauthorized possession of uniforms.
The Counter Subversion Bill 2024 is currently awaiting its second reading in the House of Representatives, where its general principles will be debated. The proposed legislation, if passed, could have far-reaching implications for Nigeria’s legal and political landscape, particularly in the ongoing struggle to maintain national unity and security.
As the nation watches, the debate surrounding this bill is expected to generate significant discourse on the balance between national security and individual freedoms. The stringent penalties proposed have already sparked discussions among civil rights groups and legal experts, who are closely monitoring the bill’s progress through the legislative process.
The Counter Subversion Bill 2024 marks a significant legislative effort to address the challenges of separatist agitations and other forms of subversion in Nigeria. Its broad scope and severe penalties highlight the government's commitment to preserving national unity and security. However, as the bill moves forward, it is likely to face scrutiny and debate over its implications for civil liberties and the potential impact on Nigeria's democratic values.
