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The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr. Tajudeen Abbas, has reacted to the rising concerns and outcry against the Counter Subversion Bill, 2024, which he proposed.
This follows media reports questioning the intent and potential consequences of the proposed bill.
In a statement by his media aide, Mr. Musa Krishi, on Wednesday, the Speaker expressed appreciation for Nigerians’ interest in the bill, acknowledging that it touches on critical aspects of national security.
However, he stressed the importance of addressing certain misconceptions to guarantee a clear and accurate public comprehension of the bill’s objectives and legislative procedure.
According to the statement, the Counter Subversion Bill was presented to the House of Representatives on July 23, 2024.
The statement said: “It is currently at the introductory stage and has not yet been subjected to detailed legislative scrutiny.
“The bill aims to strengthen Nigeria’s anti-terrorism framework by addressing subversive activities carried out by various groups, including associations, organizations, militias, cults, bandits, and other proscribed entities.
“This is in line with similar legislation in countries like the United Kingdom, Spain, India, Turkey, Canada, and Australia.”
The speaker, reiterating the House of Representatives as the voice of the people, urged vibrant public debate and input on the bill’s provisions, emphasizing that citizen concerns and suggestions are vital in refining the final legislation.
It added: “The bill must undergo a series of rigorous parliamentary procedures. It will be listed for a second reading, where its merits and demerits will be thoroughly debated by the members of the House.
“During this stage, the bill could either be rejected or allowed to proceed to the next stage. If the bill passes the Second Reading, it will be referred to the relevant House Committee, which will be responsible for further legislative action.
“The committee is mandated to invite the Nigerian public, particularly relevant stakeholders, to a public hearing. Citizens will have the opportunity to express their views either in person or through written submissions, which will inform the committee’s report to the House.”
He added: “After the committee’s report is considered, the bill will proceed to the third reading. If passed, it will be sent to the Senate for concurrence. Should the Senate approve the bill, it will then be forwarded to the President for assent. The President holds the right to either sign the bill into law or withhold his assent.”
Abbas reassured Nigerians that the bill prioritizes national security interests and does not single out any particular group or region, while also highlighting the transparent and inclusive nature of the legislative process, which encourages public engagement and feedback.
The speaker reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that all proposed laws, including the Counter Subversion Bill, will undergo rigorous examination and that Nigerians’ opinions will significantly influence the final result.
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