In a decisive move, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep Tajudeen Abbas, has officially withdrawn the contentious Counter-Subversion Bill, 2024 (HB. 1652).
The bill, introduced on July 23, 2024, aimed to impose penalties for actions such as refusing to recite the national anthem, damaging national symbols, or defacing places of worship. Speaker Abbas himself was the sponsor of the proposed legislation.
The withdrawal was announced in a statement released by Abbas’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Krishi, in Abuja. According to the statement, the Speaker decided to pull back the bill following extensive consultations with a wide range of stakeholders and after carefully considering the current climate in the country.
The statement highlighted Abbas’s commitment to the interests of the people, noting, “Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, a staunch advocate for the people’s welfare, has always prioritized listening to the citizens and fostering national unity. His decision reflects his dedication to ensuring that the House truly represents the will of the people.”
Acknowledging the public’s concerns, Abbas reaffirmed his dedication to maintaining peace and unity in the country. “He recognizes the importance of the concerns raised and the attention the bill has garnered, and he is committed to never supporting any measure that could disrupt the peace and unity of our nation,” the statement concluded.
The public was officially notified of the withdrawal of the Counter-Subversion Bill and any related bills introduced on July 23, 2024. This action underscores the importance of public opinion in legislative processes and the responsiveness of elected officials to the concerns of their constituents.
This withdrawal serves as a reminder of the dynamic nature of the legislative process and the need for laws that reflect the values and priorities of the people. It also highlights the significance of open dialogue and consultation in shaping policies that promote national unity and respect for fundamental rights.
(Vanguard)
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