House Of Reps Seeks 10-year Prison Sentence, N5Million Fine For Nigerians Who Refuse To Recite National Anthem

The House of Representatives has put forward the Counter Subversion Bill 2024, targeting acts of disloyalty to the nation.

This proposed legislation seeks to enforce strict penalties on Nigerians who fail to comply with certain national obligations, including the recitation of the national anthem.

Under the bill, individuals who refuse to recite the national anthem could face a fine of N5 million, a 10-year prison sentence, or both.

Additionally, those who destroy national symbols or places of worship with the intent to incite violence would be subject to the same punishment.

The bill, sponsored by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, is currently poised for its second reading, where its core principles will be examined in greater detail.

The legislation also extends its reach to cover illegal activities such as unauthorized roadblocks, traffic duties, curfews, and unlawful processions.

Offenders could face penalties of up to N2 million or five years in prison, or both.

Moreover, the bill addresses the forceful takeover of places of worship, town halls, schools, and other public or private premises.

Perpetrators of such actions would be liable to a fine of N5 million, a 10-year prison sentence, or both.

The proposed law further stipulates penalties for individuals who pledge loyalty to organizations that undermine Nigeria’s sovereignty, with offenders facing up to N3 million in fines or a four-year prison term, or both.