By Nigerian legislation that critics argued would allow the government to suppress dissent has been withdrawn. Tajudeen Abbas, speaker of Nigeria’s lower chamber of parliament and sponsor of the bill, announced the withdrawal in a statement on Wednesday, August 16, 2024, citing public concerns and careful consideration of Nigeria’s current circumstances.
The Counter Subversion Bill, which contained 24 clauses, had reached the first reading in parliament after its introduction in late July. The proposed legislation called for severe penalties, including jail terms for refusing to recite the national anthem, erecting illegal roadblocks, proposing illegal curfews, conducting illegal processions, and disobeying constituted authority.
The bill’s introduction followed recent anti-government demonstrations across major Nigerian cities, protesting actions such as the removal of fuel subsidies. These protests turned violent when security agents reportedly used excessive force to disperse demonstrators, resulting in 23 deaths according to Amnesty International.
Human rights activists and civil society groups strongly criticized the bill. Damilare Akinola, an Abuja-based human rights activist, called it “thoughtless,” stating that Nigeria’s civic space was already stifled before the bill’s introduction.
Isa Sanusi of Amnesty International described the legislation as “draconian, repressive and adds no value,” warning that it could be manipulated to target government critics. Sanusi urged lawmakers to focus instead on addressing corruption, mismanagement, hunger, and growing inflation.
This is not the first time Nigerian authorities have faced backlash for proposing legislation perceived as repressive. In 2019, a bill calling for regulation of social media was dropped after widespread protests.
While authorities often cite national security concerns for such legislation, many citizens disagree. Abuja resident Godswill Effiom expressed relief at the bill’s withdrawal, emphasizing the importance of free expression in a democracy.
The withdrawal of the Counter Subversion Bill marks a significant victory for civil liberties advocates in Nigeria. However, activists and citizens remain vigilant, monitoring lawmakers for any potential reintroduction of similar legislation in the future.
