Amnesty International has urged Nigeria to withdraw the Counter Subversion Bill 2024, sponsored by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, citing concerns that it could violate human rights and suppress dissent. The organization’s Director, Isa Sanusi, condemned the bill’s vague language which may lead to severe punishment for criticism. Amnesty calls for lawmakers to focus on addressing corruption and economic issues instead of repressive legislation.
Amnesty International has called for the immediate withdrawal of the Counter Subversion Bill 2024, which was recently introduced in the House of Representatives of Nigeria. This bill is sponsored by Speaker Hon. Tajudeen Abbas and has drawn significant criticism for its potential to infringe on international human rights standards and suppress dissent in Nigeria, the most populous nation in Africa.
Isa Sanusi, the Director of Amnesty International Nigeria, has condemned the bill as “misplaced and ill-timed,” highlighting concerns that its vague language could lead to severe repercussions for individuals who criticize government actions. According to Sanusi, “The bill violates international human rights standards because it will be open to vague and broad interpretations and can be used to impose incredibly harsh punishments simply for criticising the Nigerian authorities.”
Sanusi elaborates on the dangers of such legislation by referencing other nations where similar laws have been used to target political dissenters. He noted that “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 law has always — and everywhere — turned out to be a tool of repression.”
The ambiguities within the bill and its lack of robust human rights protections have raised significant concerns among civil society groups. Sanusi cautioned that, if enacted, the legislation could be exploited by officials to silence dissenting voices and undermine freedom of expression, asserting, “The content of the bill promoted by the Speaker of the House of Representatives Hon. Tajudeen Abbas is at odds with the prevailing norms of a free society.”
Amnesty International has also criticized the Nigerian government for focusing on the Counter Subversion Bill instead of addressing more pressing national issues like corruption, security, and poverty. Sanusi remarked, “Corruption — which is increasingly rampant and keeps Nigerians poorer — is the ‘subversion’ that the House of Reps. should worry about and pay closer and more concrete attention to.”
The organization pointed out the deteriorating security conditions in various parts of Nigeria, where armed groups frequently attack communities and resort to kidnapping for ransom. Sanusi highlighted the plight of residents in states such as Benue, Zamfara, Katsina, and Sokoto, where violent groups hinder agricultural activities and punish those unable to comply with their demands.
Furthermore, Amnesty International has expressed concerns regarding economic hardships faced by millions of Nigerians, exacerbated by soaring inflation. Sanusi emphasized that “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 urges the House of Representatives to prioritize laws that tackle poverty, insecurity, and corruption while ensuring alignment with both domestic and international human rights standards. Sanusi concluded, “Legislations must be compliant with domestic and international human rights standards.”
In conclusion, Amnesty International has strongly criticized Nigeria’s proposed Counter Subversion Bill for its potential threat to human rights and freedom of expression. The organization emphasizes the urgent need for legislative focus on pressing national issues such as corruption, security, and economic hardship, rather than repressive tactics that undermine civil liberties. Thereby, it advocates for laws that prioritize the well-being of the Nigerian populace and adhere to human rights obligations.
Original Source: saharareporters.com
