Controversial National Anthem Bill Withdrawn Amid Public Outcry

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has retracted the Counter Subversion and Other Related Bills, which aimed to impose a 10-year prison sentence on anyone refusing to sing Nigeria’s newly reinstated national anthem. The bill’s withdrawal follows substantial public backlash and criticism.

The bill, introduced in July, sought to mandate the recitation of “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” an anthem reinstated by President Bola Tinubu on May 29, 2024. This change marked the first anniversary of Tinubu’s administration and replaced the former anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots,” as part of a broader rebranding of national symbols.

The reintroduction of “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” faced strong criticism from various sectors of Nigerian society. Critics argued that focusing on altering the anthem was a misallocation of resources and attention, given the country’s pressing socio-economic and security issues. Prominent figures such as former Minister Oby Ezekwesili and activist Aisha Yesufu publicly opposed the bill.

Although the National Anthem Bill 2024 had initially passed through both the House of Representatives under Abbas and the Senate led by President Godswill Akpabio, the proposal to criminalize non-compliance ignited considerable controversy. In light of the growing opposition, Abbas chose to withdraw the bill, emphasizing his commitment to national unity and addressing the concerns of the public.

A statement from Abbas’ spokesperson, Musa Krishi, highlighted that the decision to retract the bill was made after “careful consideration of the nation’s current circumstances.” Krishi affirmed that Abbas remains focused on ensuring that legislative actions align with the people’s best interests and contribute positively to national harmony.