The Nigerian House of Representatives has introduced the Counter Subversion Bill 2024. This bill aims to impose strict penalties on individuals involved in separatist agitations or actions inciting conflicts. The proposed legislation includes prison sentences of up to 25 years, fines of N10 million, or both. The bill seeks to criminalize subversive activities by various groups, including militias, cults, and other proscribed entities.
The bill’s sponsor, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, has scheduled it for a second reading, where its principles will be debated. The bill specifies penalties for destroying national symbols or refusing to recite the national anthem. Such offenses could result in a fine of N5 million, a 10-year prison sentence, or both. Setting up illegal roadblocks or organizing unlawful processions could lead to a N2 million fine, five years in prison, or both. Insulting or defaming community or government leaders may result in a fine of N4 million or a two-year prison sentence.
More facts about the Bill
Sections 2, 5, 6, and 10 of the bill target activities fostering mutual suspicion or intolerance, threatening Nigeria’s peace and security. Conviction could result in a N5 million fine, a 10-year prison term, or both. The bill also criminalizes forcefully taking over places of worship, public spaces, or similar venues. Such offenses carry penalties of N5 million or 10 years in prison, or both.
Professing loyalty to organizations disregarding Nigeria’s sovereignty could lead to a N3 million fine, four years in prison, or both. Receiving foreign support incompatible with Nigeria’s interests could result in a N15 million fine, 20 years in prison, or both. Sections 12, 13, 14, 15, 17, and 20 address actions undermining national security or disrupting community harmony. Penalties include a N3 million fine, up to five years in prison, or both.
Creating or supporting a paramilitary group could lead to a N10 million fine, 15 years in prison, or both. Unlawfully occupying public places without authorization could result in a N1 million fine, three years in prison, or both. Possessing or using military, police, or intelligence uniforms without authorization could lead to a N2 million fine, two years in prison, or both.