Amnesty International Calls for Withdrawal of Nigeria’s Counter Subversion Bill

Amnesty International Nigeria has criticized Speaker Tajudeen Abbas’s Counter Subversion Bill 2024, urging its withdrawal due to fears it will infringe upon free expression and establish repressive measures against dissent. The organization highlights severe national issues such as corruption and insecurity as areas the government should address instead of pursuing such legislation.

Amnesty International Nigeria has urged for the immediate withdrawal of the Counter Subversion Bill 2024, introduced in the House of Representatives and sponsored by Speaker Hon. Tajudeen Abbas. This proposed legislation has drawn significant criticism for potentially violating international human rights standards and for its capacity to suppress dissent in Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation.

Isa Sanusi, Director of Amnesty International Nigeria, described the bill as “misplaced and ill-timed,” emphasizing that its vague language could lead to severe penalties for individuals who criticize the government. He warned that such legislation could be interpreted broadly and result in harsh punishments for simple expressions of dissent.

Sanusi further elucidated the dangers posed by the Counter Subversion Bill by referencing other countries where similar laws have been used to eliminate political opposition and silence peaceful dissent. He remarked, “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 ambiguous phrasing and absence of human rights safeguards in the bill have raised concerns among activists and civil society organizations. Sanusi cautioned that lawmakers could exploit the bill to suppress opposition and undermine freedom of expression, asserting that it contradicts the principles of a free society.

Beyond the implications of the bill, Amnesty International criticized the Nigerian government for choosing to consider such legislation amidst critical national issues, including rampant corruption and pervasive insecurity. Sanusi highlighted that corruption significantly impoverishes the Nigerian populace, stating that it is the real “subversion” the government should address directly.

He noted the deteriorating security conditions in regions impacted by violence from armed groups, which frequently disrupt farming activities and impose severe penalties on non-compliant individuals. Sanusi pointed out, “Nigerian authorities are failing to protect the people,” urging policymakers to prioritize addressing these urgent matters instead of advancing repressive measures.

Amnesty International emphasized the dire economic situation faced by millions of Nigerians, burdened by soaring inflation and struggling to meet basic needs. Sanusi concluded, “At a time when millions of Nigerians live at the mercy of unprecedented inflation and are struggling to feed themselves — and cannot afford the cost of education and healthcare — such legislation relegates the well-being of the people.”

The organization has implored the House of Representatives to prioritize laws addressing poverty, insecurity, and corruption, while ensuring compliance with both domestic and international human rights standards, reaffirming, “Legislations must be compliant with domestic and international human rights standards.”

In summary, Amnesty International Nigeria has called for the withdrawal of the Counter Subversion Bill 2024, citing its potential to violate human rights and suppress dissent. The organization warns of the dangers associated with such vague legislation, urging lawmakers to shift their focus towards pressing issues such as corruption, insecurity, and poverty. It emphasizes the need for legislative measures to align with human rights standards, advocating for the well-being of the Nigerian populace amidst current challenges.

Original Source: saharareporters.com