Politics

House of Representatives Proposes Harsh Penalties for Separatist Agitation; Warns IPOB Members and Others

Published by Tope Fakinlede on August 14th, 2024.

House of Representatives Proposes Harsh Penalties for Separatist Agitation; Warns IPOB Members and Others

The Nigerian House of Representatives has proposed the Counter Subversion Bill 2024, which aims to impose severe penalties on those involved in separatist activities or actions that incite inter-group or sectional conflicts.

The proposed legislation stipulates that individuals convicted of such offenses could face up to 25 years in prison, a fine of N10 million, or both, as reported by The Sun.

The bill’s explanatory notes reveal that it seeks to criminalize subversive actions by various entities, including associations, organizations, militias, cults, and other prohibited groups.

Notable figures such as Nnamdi Kanu of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and Sunday Igboho, who have called for the creation of Biafra and Oduduwa/Yoruba states, are referenced in the context of the bill.

Sponsored by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, the bill is scheduled for its second reading, where its overarching principles will be debated.

The bill outlines fines and imprisonment terms for various infractions: destruction of national symbols, refusal to recite the national anthem or pledge, defacement of worship sites to incite violence, or undermining the Federal Government could result in a fine of N5 million, a 10-year prison sentence, or both.

It also imposes fines and imprisonment for unauthorized actions such as illegal roadblocks, unauthorized traffic duties, illegal curfews, or unlawful processions—penalties include a N2 million fine, five years in prison, or both.

Additionally, the bill proposes a N4 million fine or two years in prison for insulting or defaming community, religious, or government leaders. Sections 2, 5, 6, and 10 detail penalties for activities fostering mistrust or violence that threatens national security—fines of N5 million, up to 10 years in prison, or both.

Other provisions include:

– Forceful takeover of public or private spaces could result in a N5 million fine or 10 years in prison.

– Allegiance to groups undermining Nigeria’s sovereignty is punishable by a N3 million fine or four years in prison.

– Receiving foreign support detrimental to Nigeria’s interests could lead to a N15 million fine or 20 years in prison.

The bill also addresses activities disrupting community harmony or national security, with penalties of up to N3 million, five years in prison, or both. Persistent disobedience to authority may result in a fine of N5 million or up to seven years imprisonment.

Further, the bill criminalizes the establishment or support of unauthorized paramilitary groups, imposing fines of up to N10 million or 15 years in prison. Unauthorized construction or occupation of public spaces without proper approval carries penalties of N1 million, three years in prison, or both.

Finally, possession or use of military, police, or intelligence agency uniforms without authorization is punishable by a fine of N2 million or two years imprisonment.