Rita Odafe
There are indications of a possible fresh nationwide protest in response to a contentious bill concerning the national anthem.
The Take It Back Movement, a civil rights group known for the recent EndBadGovernance demonstrations, has raised this concern.
The bill in question, currently before the House of Representatives, aims to penalize individuals who refuse to recite the national anthem.
Presented by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, the bill proposes a fine of N5 million or a 10-year prison sentence, or both, for anyone found damaging national symbols or failing to recite the anthem and pledge.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the Take It Back Movement strongly opposed the bill, citing its potential infringement on the rights of Nigerians.
The organization’s National Coordinator, Juwon Sanyaolu, emphasized that the bill should be dismissed rather than enacted into law, urging the government to address the root causes of internal discord and unrest.
They have threatened a nationwide protest if the bill is passed despite public outcry.
Part of their statement expressed:
“As a movement advocating for justice and progress for the people, we have witnessed widespread public disapproval of the bill, with citizens voicing their dissatisfaction.
“We view this proposed law as an attempt to limit the rights of Nigerians and we fully support the public in opposing this unjust proposal.
“In solidarity with the Nigerian populace, we strongly reject this repressive legislation and pledge to defend the constitutional rights of Nigerians at all costs.
“We are determined to safeguard what remains of our democratic freedoms as Nigerians, even if it requires mobilizing citizens to protest if this oppressive bill is not retracted promptly.”
