In Nigeria, lawmakers have drawn the line with fines and jail time for violent protest and looting.

In Nigeria, lawmakers have drawn the line with fines and jail time for violent protest and looting.

The House of Representatives is considering a measure that would impose a penalty of up to 25 years in prison or a fine of N10 million, or both, for individuals found guilty of making statements or taking actions that incite separatist movements or provoke inter-group or sectional conflicts within the nation.

This proposal is part of the Counter Subversion Bill 2024 currently under review by the House.

According to the explanatory notes accompanying the legislation, its aim is to criminalize subversive activities carried out by various associations, organizations, militias, cults, bandits, and other banned groups in Nigeria.

The Bill, which is sponsored by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, is pending its second reading, where the fundamental principles will be discussed.