- Safiu Kehinde
Amidst outrage over a bill seeking 10 years of jail term of fine of N5m for those who fail to recite the national anthem, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abass has withdrawn the bill.
This was contained in a statement signed by the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Speaker, Musa Krishi, and shared on the House of Representatives’ official X handle.
The decision, according to the statement, was made, following consultations and careful consideration of the nation’s current circumstances.
“In response to the voices and concerns of the people, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D., has decided to withdraw the Counter Subversion Bill and other related draft legislation.
“This decision follows his extensive consultations with a broad range of stakeholders and a careful consideration of the nation’s current circumstances.
“Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, a champion of the people’s interests, has always prioritised 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.” The statement read.
Following backlash from the public due to the Bill’s connection with the new national anthem’s disapproval, the lawmakers had earlier issued a statement to correct the misinterpretation.