A bill sponsored by the Speaker of the House of Representatives proposes that Nigerians could face up to two years in prison or a fine of N4 million for any act perceived as demeaning or embarrassing to a public official.
The bill, introduced by Mr. Tajudeen and titled the Counter Subversive Bill, contains provisions that some experts view as overly harsh and potentially detrimental to civic space and democratic freedoms.
The Speaker claims the bill aligns with Nigeria’s anti-terrorism efforts and seeks to combat subversive activities by various groups, including associations, organizations, militias, cults, bandits, and other proscribed entities.
However, many of the bill’s clauses could be broadly applied to any group, though amendments or rejection during the committee stage remain possible.
One controversial provision, Clause 18, states that anyone who criticizes, instigates, persuades, denigrates, embarrasses, or discredits the leadership of a community, religion, lawful group, local, state, or federal government in Nigeria would be committing an offense. Such an offense could result in a fine of N4 million, a two-year prison sentence, or both.
Additionally, Clause 13 of the bill outlines a three-year prison sentence or a N5 million fine for “disrespecting” constituted authorities, subject to a court conviction. Repeat offenders could face up to seven years in prison or additional fines.
This bill is the latest in a series of legislative efforts by successive governments to regulate civic space.
Civil society organizations and the media have long opposed similar legislation, such as the NGO Bill, Hate Speech Bill, and Fake News Bill.
Since becoming Speaker in June 2023, Mr. Tajudeen, who was openly endorsed by President Bola Tinubu, appears to be championing this controversial legislation.
The bill also seeks to criminalize road blockades and the hoisting of foreign flags. It comes in the wake of the #EndBadGovernance protests, which shook the nation and were met with violent government crackdowns in some states, where protesters were labeled as “regime change” advocates. During the protests, held from August 1-10, demonstrators blocked major highways in some states, prompting curfews where looting occurred.
