Nigeria’s House of Representatives has withdrawn a controversial bill that sought to impose a jail term on individuals who refuse to recite the country’s new national anthem.
The bill, which had sparked widespread condemnation, was seen by many as an overreach of legislative power and a potential infringement on citizens’ rights.
The decision to withdraw the bill comes just days after it was introduced to the House. The proposed legislation, initiated by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, had stipulated a hefty fine of N5 million (U.S.$3,175) and a 10-year jail term for anyone found guilty of disrespecting national symbols, including the national anthem.
In a statement, the Speaker’s spokesperson, Abdullahi Krishi, said the decision to withdraw the bill was in response to the concerns raised by Nigerians. He emphasized the importance of listening to the people and ensuring that laws are in the best interest of the nation.
“He acknowledges the significance of the concerns raised and the attention the Bill has garnered, reaffirming that he will never support any action that might disrupt the peace and unity of our nation,” Krishi stated.
—Ezinwanne Onwuka reports for TruthNigeria from Abuja.
