Amnesty International Nigeria has called for the repeal of the Counter Subversion Bill 2024, sponsored by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, citing its potential to violate human rights and suppress free expression. The organization urges lawmakers to instead focus on serious national issues such as corruption and insecurity.
Amnesty International Nigeria has called for the immediate repeal of the Counter Subversion Bill 2024, recently introduced in the House of Representatives. This bill, sponsored by Speaker Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, faces substantial critique for its potential to infringe on international human rights standards and suppress dissent among the nation’s populace.
Isa Sanusi, Director of Amnesty International Nigeria, has publicly condemned the bill as “misplaced and ill-timed.” He highlighted that its broad and ambiguous language might lead to severe penalties for individuals who merely express criticism toward the government, indicating a risk of arbitrary enforcement.
Sanusi pointed out the perils associated with such legislation, citing instances from other nations where similar laws have been manipulated to target political adversaries and diminish peaceful dissent. He stated, “In countries where such legislation is implemented, the law is being used to target political opponents and punish those who peacefully express views which differ from those of the government.”
The bill’s lack of clarity and essential human rights protections has provoked concern among activists and civil society organizations. Sanusi warned that the potential for abuse by officials could lead to the silencing of opposition voices, undermining the fundamental right to free expression.
Amnesty International also criticized the Nigerian government for prioritizing this repressive legislation amid pressing national challenges such as rising corruption, significant insecurity, and deepening poverty. Sanusi remarked, “Corruption — which is increasingly rampant and keeps Nigerians poorer — is the ‘subversion’ that the House of Reps. should worry about.”
He emphasized the deteriorating security conditions, particularly in states like Benue, Zamfara, Katsina, and Sokoto, where armed groups threaten communities, impose unlawful demands, and severely punish non-compliance. “Nigerian authorities are failing to protect the people,” Sanusi underlined, advocating for lawmakers to divert their focus towards addressing these pressing issues.
Furthermore, Amnesty International highlighted the dire economic conditions affecting millions of Nigerians, accentuated by unprecedented inflation that severely limits access to basic necessities. Sanusi stated, “At a time when millions of Nigerians live at the mercy of unprecedented inflation… such legislation relegates the well-being of the people.”
The organization has urged the House of Representatives to concentrate on developing legislative measures that tackle poverty, insecurity, and corruption, while adhering to both domestic and international human rights standards. “Legislations must be compliant with domestic and international human rights standards,” Sanusi concluded.
In summary, Amnesty International Nigeria has strongly criticized the introduction of the Counter Subversion Bill 2024, asserting that it threatens to undermine human rights and free expression. The organization has called for legislative focus on addressing critical issues such as corruption, insecurity, and poverty instead of pursuing repressive measures. It remains imperative for lawmakers to ensure that any enacted legislation aligns with both domestic and international human rights standards.
Original Source: saharareporters.com
