Amnesty International Nigeria has denounced the Counter Subversion Bill 2024 sponsored by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, citing its potential to violate human rights and suppress dissent. Director Isa Sanusi condemned the bill for its vague language and possible repercussions for criticism of the government, urging lawmakers to prioritize urgent national issues such as corruption and insecurity instead.
Amnesty International Nigeria has urged for the immediate withdrawal of the Counter Subversion Bill 2024, recently introduced in the House of Representatives by Speaker Hon. Tajudeen Abbas. The proposed legislation has attracted widespread criticism for its potential to infringe upon international human rights standards and suppress dissent in Nigeria, which is Africa’s most populous nation.
Isa Sanusi, Director of Amnesty International Nigeria, described the bill as ‘misplaced and ill-timed.’ He warned that its vague language could result in severe penalties for individuals merely expressing criticism toward the government. Sanusi emphasized that, “The bill violates international human rights standards because it will be open to vague and broad interpretations…”.
Sanusi highlighted the dangers associated with such laws, drawing attention to instances in other nations where similar legislation was utilized to target political adversaries and quash peaceful dissent. He stated, “In countries where such legislation is implemented, the law is being used to target political opponents… The law has always — and everywhere — turned out to be a tool of repression.”
Concerns have emerged over the bill’s ambiguous wording and absence of explicit protections for human rights. Sanusi stressed that, if enacted, the legislation could be exploited by officials to suppress opposition and violate freedom of expression, asserting, “The content of the bill promoted by the Speaker… is at odds with the prevailing norms of a free society.”
Amnesty International also condemned the Nigerian government for prioritizing this bill amidst urgent national issues, such as escalating corruption, pervasive insecurity, and rising poverty. “Corruption… is the ‘subversion’ that the House of Reps. should worry about and pay closer and more concrete attention to,” stated Sanusi.
The organization underscored the deteriorating security in regions where armed groups frequently attack, abduct civilians, and impose levies on farmers. In states like Benue and Zamfara, armed groups prevent farming activities, punishing individuals unable to pay with severe consequences. Sanusi remarked, “Nigerian authorities are failing to protect the people.”
Additionally, Amnesty International pointed to the economic struggles faced by millions of Nigerians, as unprecedented inflation threatens living conditions. Sanusi remarked, “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 called upon the House of Representatives to focus on creating laws that combat poverty, insecurity, and corruption while adhering to both domestic and international human rights standards. Sanusi concluded, “Legislations must be compliant with domestic and international human rights standards.”
In conclusion, Amnesty International Nigeria strongly opposes the Counter Subversion Bill 2024 presented by Speaker Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, citing its potential to violate human rights and stifle dissent. The organization calls for a legislative focus on pressing issues such as corruption, insecurity, and poverty, urging lawmakers to align future legislation with international standards of human rights. The broader implications of this bill raise serious concerns about civil liberties in Nigeria, particularly regarding free expression and opposition.
Original Source: saharareporters.com
