The House of Representatives is poised to pass a bill that imposes severe penalties, including a 25-year jail term and a N10 million fine, on those involved in separatist movements like Biafra, Oduduwa/Yoruba, and other similar agitators, including bandits and groups like Boko Haram.
The bill aims to criminalize actions that threaten Nigeria’s unity and security.
This proposal is outlined in the Counter Subversion Bill 2024, currently under consideration in the House. According to the bill’s explanatory notes, the legislation aims to criminalize subversive activities by groups such as associations, organizations, militias, cults, bandits, and other proscribed entities within Nigeria.
The bill, sponsored by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, is set for a second reading, where its core principles will be debated by lawmakers.
In addition to the primary penalties, the bill stipulates a fine of N5 million or a 10-year imprisonment, or both, for anyone convicted of desecrating national symbols, refusing to recite the national anthem and pledge, defacing places of worship with intent to incite violence, or undermining the Federal Government.
The proposed law also targets illegal roadblocks, unauthorized curfews, and unsanctioned processions, with violators facing a N2 million fine or a five-year prison term, or both.
Further, a fine of N4 million or a two-year prison sentence, or both, is prescribed for individuals convicted of defaming, embarrassing, or discrediting leadership across community, religious, or governmental levels.
The bill explicitly penalizes actions leading to mutual suspicion, mistrust, or violence that threatens Nigeria’s unity and security, with offenders liable to a fine of N5 million or 10 years imprisonment, or both.
Other provisions in the bill criminalize forcefully taking over places of worship or public spaces, affiliating with organizations that reject Nigeria’s sovereignty, and receiving support from foreign entities deemed harmful to Nigeria’s interests. These offenses could lead to fines ranging from N3 million to N15 million or imprisonment terms of up to 20 years.
Additionally, the bill outlines penalties for undermining national security, disregarding constituted authority, and engaging in rebellious behavior. These offenses attract fines and imprisonment terms ranging from N3 million to N7 million or three to seven years in prison, depending on the severity of the act.
The bill also targets the illegal establishment or support of paramilitary groups, prescribing a fine of N10 million or 15 years imprisonment, or both. Unauthorized construction on public land and illegal possession or use of military or police uniforms are also criminalized, with offenders facing significant fines or imprisonment.
This sweeping legislation represents a determined effort by the House to strengthen national unity and prevent actions that could destabilize the country.
