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Reps Propose 25-Year Jail Term, ₦10 Million Fine For Separatist Agitations

Published

3 months ago

Aug 13, 2024.

The House of Representatives is currently deliberating a new piece of legislation, the Counter Subversion Bill 2024, which seeks to impose stringent penalties on individuals and groups engaging in actions that threaten Nigeria’s national unity and security.

EKO HOT BLOG reports that the bill, sponsored by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, is set for a second reading, during which its general principles will be debated.

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Under the proposed law, individuals convicted of engaging in separatist agitations or other subversive activities could face up to 25 years in prison, a fine of ₦10 million, or both.

The bill specifically targets associations, organizations, militias, cults, bandits, and other proscribed entities involved in actions deemed to undermine the Federal Government or incite violence.

It’s explanatory memorandum outlines its primary objective: to criminalize acts that threaten the corporate existence of Nigeria.

It aims to curb activities that could promote separatist agendas, incite violence, or subvert the authority of the government.

In addition to the penalties for separatist actions, the bill proposes severe punishments for a range of subversive behaviors.

For example, anyone found guilty of destroying national symbols, refusing to recite the national anthem or pledge, defacing places of worship with the intent to incite violence, or undermining the Federal Government could face a fine of ₦5 million or a 10-year prison sentence, or both.

Reps Separatist Agitations

The bill also addresses illegal activities that disrupt public order. Those convicted of mounting illegal roadblocks, engaging in unauthorized traffic control, imposing illegal curfews, or conducting illegal processions could be liable for a fine of ₦2 million or five years imprisonment, or both.

Furthermore, individuals found guilty of bringing disrepute to community leaders, religious figures, or government officials could face a fine of ₦4 million or a two-year prison term.

It emphasizes that acts leading to mutual suspicion, mistrust, or intolerance, which escalate into violence, are punishable by a fine of ₦5 million or 10 years imprisonment.

The bill extends to other illegal activities, such as forcefully taking over places of worship, town halls, or public places, and affiliating with organizations that disregard Nigeria’s sovereignty. Offenders could face fines ranging from ₦3 million to ₦15 million and prison sentences from four to 20 years.

The legislation also seeks to curb the establishment or support of paramilitary groups, with penalties including a fine of ₦10 million or 15 years imprisonment.