The Nigerian House of Representatives has introduced the Counter Subversion Bill 2024, which proposes severe penalties for actions perceived as disrespectful to national symbols and sovereignty. Sponsored by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, the bill includes a ₦5 million fine or a 10-year prison sentence for individuals who refuse to recite the national anthem.
The bill also targets those who destroy national symbols, deface places of worship with the intent to incite violence, or pledge loyalty to organizations that disregard Nigeria’s sovereignty, imposing fines and prison sentences for such offenses. Additionally, it criminalizes actions like setting up illegal roadblocks, unauthorized traffic duties, and organizing unlawful processions, with penalties including fines of up to ₦2 million and up to five years in prison.
This proposed legislation comes in the wake of President Bola Tinubu’s re-adoption of Nigeria’s old national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” emphasizing a renewed focus on national unity and identity.