The Nigerian House of Representatives has introduced the Counter Subversion Bill 2024, which proposes severe penalties for those involved in separatist agitations or actions that incite inter-group or sectional conflicts. According to the bill, individuals convicted of such offenses could face a prison sentence of up to 25 years, a fine of ₦10 million, or both.
The bill’s explanatory memoranda state that it aims to criminalize subversive activities carried out by a broad range of groups, including associations, organizations, militias, cults, bandits, and other proscribed entities. The bill, sponsored by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, is set for its second reading, during which its general principles will be debated.
According to the bill, anyone found guilty of destroying national symbols, refusing to recite the national anthem and pledge, defacing a place of worship with intent to incite violence, or undermining the Federal Government, would face a fine of ₦5 million, a 10-year prison sentence, or both. The bill also outlines penalties for setting up illegal roadblocks, performing unauthorized traffic duties, imposing illegal curfews, or organizing unlawful processions, with offenders subject to a fine of ₦2 million, five years in prison, or both.
The bill further stipulates a fine of ₦4 million or a two-year prison sentence for anyone convicted of insulting, defaming, embarrassing, or bringing into disrepute the leadership of a community, religion, lawful group, local government, state, or federal government.
Sections 2, 5, 6, and 10 of the proposed legislation address activities that foster mutual suspicion, mistrust, or intolerance, leading to conflict and violence that threaten Nigeria’s peace and security. Offenders in this category could face a fine of ₦5 million, a 10-year prison term, or both. The bill also includes penalties for forcibly taking over places of worship, town halls, schools, or other public or private venues, with a fine of ₦5 million or 10 years imprisonment, or both.
Furthermore, the bill states that individuals who profess loyalty to or pledge allegiance to organizations that disregard Nigeria’s sovereignty, or who receive financial or political support from foreign entities that are not aligned with Nigeria’s interests, could face penalties of ₦3 million or a four-year prison term, or both. Those found guilty of receiving incompatible support from foreign organizations or countries may be subject to a fine of ₦15 million or a 20-year prison sentence, or both.
Additional sections of the bill impose penalties for actions that undermine national security, disrupt community harmony, or impede law and order. Offenders could face fines of up to ₦3 million, imprisonment for up to five years, or both. Repeated violations could result in longer sentences and higher fines.
In specific terms, the bill targets those who establish or fund paramilitary groups or other unauthorized entities, with offenders liable to a fine of ₦10 million or 15 years imprisonment, or both. It also penalizes the unauthorized occupation of public spaces and the possession or use of military, police, or intelligence agency uniforms and emblems, with fines and prison terms stipulated for such offenses.
The Counter Subversion Bill 2024 represents a significant legislative effort to address and penalize actions perceived as threats to Nigeria’s unity and security.
