The Take It Back Movement, a prominent rights advocacy organization, has vehemently rejected a controversial bill seeking to penalize Nigerians for not reciting the national anthem.
The bill, sponsored by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, proposes a N5 million fine or 10 years imprisonment for offenders.
In a statement signed by National Coordinator Juwon Sanyaolu, the organization described the bill as a threat to fundamental rights and urged its withdrawal. “The bill should be discarded and not passed into law…the government should redirect their efforts toward tackling the underlying factors that contribute to discord and strife within our country.”
The Take It Back Movement threatened a nationwide demonstration if the bill becomes law despite public outrage. “We perceive this legislation as an effort to stifle the rights of Nigerians…we proudly stand with the people in raising our voices to condemn this unfair proposal…we will stop at nothing to protect whatever is left of our democratic rights as Nigerians.”
The organization noted significant public backlash against the bill, with citizens expressing discontent. “In solidarity with the people of Nigeria, we unequivocally denounce this proposed repressive legislation and vow to protect the constitutional rights of Nigerians.”
The Take It Back Movement’s stance highlights growing concerns about the bill’s implications for democratic rights and freedoms in Nigeria.
