Abuja – Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, has responded to growing concerns regarding the “Counter Subversion Bill, 2024 (HB. 1652),” which he sponsored. His statement, issued through media aide Musa Krishi on Wednesday, aims to clarify misconceptions about the proposed legislation.
The Speaker acknowledged the significant public interest in the Bill, noting its critical relevance to national security. He underscored the importance of accurate information about the Bill’s purpose and legislative process.
Introduced to the House of Representatives on July 23, 2024, the Counter Subversion Bill is currently in its introductory phase and has not yet undergone detailed legislative review. According to the statement, the Bill seeks to enhance Nigeria’s anti-terrorism framework by targeting subversive activities from various groups, including militias, cults, and other proscribed entities. The proposed legislation is modeled after similar laws in the United Kingdom, Spain, India, Turkey, Canada, and Australia.
Speaker Tajudeen emphasized that the House of Representatives, as a representative body, welcomes active public engagement and debate on the Bill. He encouraged Nigerians to contribute their views, which will help shape the final version of the legislation.
The legislative process for the Bill includes several stages. After the Second Reading, where its merits will be debated, it will be referred to a relevant House Committee. This committee will conduct a public hearing, inviting input from stakeholders and citizens. The committee’s report will then be considered during the Third Reading. If approved, the Bill will proceed to the Senate for further scrutiny. Should the Senate pass it, the Bill will be sent to the President, who has the authority to either sign it into law or withhold assent.
Speaker Tajudeen reassured the public that the Bill is crafted with national security in mind and does not target any specific group or section of the country. He affirmed that the legislative process will be transparent and inclusive, allowing ample opportunity for public participation.
In conclusion, Speaker Tajudeen reiterated his commitment to rigorous scrutiny of all draft legislation and emphasized that public input will be a crucial factor in the legislative process.
