Former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili, has boldly challenged Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, to prosecute her once the Counter Subversion Bill 2024 becomes law. The bill, which has sparked widespread debate, is currently set for its second reading in the House, where its general principles will be discussed.
The proposed legislation, sponsored by Abbas, imposes harsh penalties on Nigerians who refuse to recite the national anthem, "Nigeria, We Hail Thee," originally written by Lillian Jean Williams in 1959 and composed by Frances Berda. President Bola Tinubu reinstated this version in May, replacing the more familiar "Arise O Compatriots."
Ezekwesili has been vocal in her opposition, stating that she will continue to sing "Arise O Compatriots," rejecting the colonial-era anthem. According to the bill, individuals found guilty of refusing to recite the anthem could face a fine of N5 million, a 10-year prison sentence, or both. The bill also proposes similar penalties for those who deface national symbols or places of worship.
In a recent post on X, Ezekwesili criticized the House for focusing on what she described as "irrelevancies while the country totters." She accused the lawmakers of engaging in a "silly flight of fancy" with the introduction of the Counter Subversion Bill, arguing that it reflects a lack of seriousness and relevance to Nigeria's pressing issues.
Ezekwesili did not mince words in her condemnation, declaring her intent to continue standing by the "real" Nigerian National Anthem, "Arise O Compatriots." She further accused the lawmakers of colluding with the presidency to push through what she sees as an unconstitutional law.
"Get ready to prosecute me when you pass your noxious Counter Subversion Bill into an Act," Ezekwesili asserted, adding that if any group deserves a Subversion Act, it is the lawmakers themselves, who she claims have consistently undermined Nigeria's progress through their actions.
