Reps Speaker withdraws bill prescribing jail term for non-recital of national anthem

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Tajudeen Abbas, says he has withdrawn the controversial bill that seeks to impose penalties on citizens who fail to recite the national anthem, destroy national symbols, and deface places of worship.

On Tuesday, July 23, 2024, Abbas, the sponsor, introduced the Counter Subversion Bill, 2024 (HB. 1652) on the House of Representatives’ floor, Persecondnews recalls.

The Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Musa Krishi, released a statement in Abuja on Wednesday, in which Abbas explained that he made his decision after thorough consultations with various stakeholders and a thoughtful evaluation of the country’s current situation.

The statement said: “Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, a champion of the people’s interests, has always prioritized listening to the citizens and fostering unity.

“His decision reflects his commitment to ensuring that the House remains truly the People’s House.

“He acknowledges the significance of the concerns raised and the attention the bill has garnered, reaffirming that he will never support any action that might disrupt the peace and unity of our nation.

“The public is hereby notified of the withdrawal of the Counter Subversion Bill and other related ones introduced on July 23, 2024.”