Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has withdrawn the contentious Counter Subversion and Other Related Bills after mounting public pressure.
The announcement was made in a statement by Musa Abdullahi Krishi, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Speaker, who noted that the decision was made in response to widespread concerns from the public.
The statement emphasized that Speaker Abbas, known for championing the interests of the people, made this decision after extensive consultations with various stakeholders and careful consideration of the nation’s current situation.
“Speaker Abbas Tajudeen has always prioritized listening to the citizens and fostering unity. His decision to withdraw the bill reflects his unwavering commitment to ensuring that the House remains the true voice of the people,” the statement read.
The Counter Subversion Bill, introduced on July 23, 2024, had faced significant criticism from many Nigerians, who viewed its provisions as draconian, anti-democratic, and a threat to free expression. The Speaker’s withdrawal of the bill is seen as a response to these concerns, reaffirming his stance against any measures that could undermine national peace and unity.
