The Nigerian House of Representatives has proposed the Counter Subversion Bill 2024, which introduces severe penalties for individuals engaging in separatist movements or actions that incite inter-group or sectional conflicts. According to this new bill, anyone convicted of such offences could face a prison sentence of up to 25 years, a fine of N10 million, or both, as reported by The Sun.
The bill aims to criminalize a broad range of subversive activities, covering groups like associations, organizations, militias, cults, bandits, and other proscribed entities. Notable figures such as Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), and Sunday Igboho, who advocates for an Oduduwa/Yoruba nation, have been at the forefront of such separatist agitations.
Sponsored by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, the bill is approaching its second reading, where lawmakers will debate its general principles.
The proposed legislation includes provisions for punishing those who destroy national symbols, refuse to recite the national anthem and pledge, or deface places of worship with the intent to incite violence or undermine the Federal Government. Offenders would face a fine of N5 million, a 10-year prison sentence, or both.
Additionally, the bill stipulates penalties for setting up illegal roadblocks, performing unauthorized traffic duties, imposing illegal curfews, or organizing unlawful processions. Such actions could result in a fine of N2 million, five years in prison, or both.
The bill also targets those who insult, defame, or bring disrepute to the leadership of a community, religion, lawful group, local government, state, or federal government. Offenders could face a fine of N4 million or a two-year prison sentence.
Further, the bill criminalizes activities that foster mutual suspicion, mistrust, or intolerance leading to conflicts that threaten Nigeria’s peace and security. Individuals found guilty could face a fine of N5 million, a 10-year prison term, or both.
Other sections of the bill address the takeover of places of worship, town halls, schools, or similar venues through force or deceit, with penalties including a fine of N5 million or imprisonment for up to 10 years. Additionally, anyone pledging loyalty to organizations that disregard Nigeria’s sovereignty could face a fine of N3 million, four years in prison, or both.
The bill also targets individuals or groups receiving foreign support incompatible with Nigeria’s interests, imposing penalties of N15 million or 20 years in prison upon conviction.
Sections 12 through 20 of the bill outline penalties for those engaging in activities that undermine national security, disturb community harmony, or disrupt law and order. Convictions could result in fines of N3 million, imprisonment for up to five years, or both.
Furthermore, the bill specifies punishments for habitual lawbreakers, those who resist arrest, or engage in defiance against authority. Such individuals could face a fine of N5 million, three to seven years of imprisonment, or both.
Finally, the bill penalizes the establishment or support of unauthorized paramilitary groups, cults, or bandit organizations, with offenders facing a fine of N10 million or 15 years in prison.
The bill also addresses unlawful construction on or occupation of public places without authorization, penalizing offenders with fines of N1 million, three years of imprisonment, or both. Moreover, unauthorized use of military, police, or intelligence agency uniforms and emblems could lead to a fine of N2 million or a two-year prison term.
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