Recite the national anthem or face 10-Year Prison Term, Reps proposes

The Counter Subversion Bill 2024 proposed by the Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives, Rt. Hon Tajudeen Abbasi, is currently set for its second reading, where its general principles will be debated.

The new bill aims to impose severe penalties on Nigerians who refuse to recite the national anthem.

Under the proposed legislation, individuals found guilty of this offense could face a 10-year prison sentence, a fine of N5 million, or both.

Sponsored by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, the bill also outlines penalties for other related offenses. Those who destroy national symbols or places of worship, deface these sites with intent to incite violence, or undermine the Federal Government would be subject to the same penalties.

Additional provisions in the bill include fines and prison terms for setting up illegal roadblocks, performing unauthorized traffic duties, imposing illegal curfews, or organizing unlawful processions. Violators could face a fine of N2 million, up to five years in prison, or both.

The bill also targets those who forcefully take over public or private places, with penalties including a fine of N5 million or 10 years in prison. Additionally, anyone who pledges loyalty to organizations that disregard Nigeria’s sovereignty could face a fine of N3 million or four years in prison.

This legislation follows President Bola Tinubu’s recent signing of a bill reverting to Nigeria’s old national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” which was re-adopted in May. The anthem, originally written by Lillian Jean Williams in 1959 and composed by Frances Berda, replaces the anthem introduced by a military government in 1978.

The Counter Subversion Bill 2024 proposed by the Reps Speaker is currently set for its second reading, where its general principles will be debated.