Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas has bowed to pressure by withdrawing his controversial Counter Subversion and Other Related Bills.

The withdrawal of the bill was announced in a statement by Musa Abdullahi Krishi, the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Speaker.

According to the statement, Abbas withdrew the bill in “response to the voices and concerns of the people.”,

“This decision follows his extensive consultations with a broad range of stakeholders and a careful consideration of the nation’s current circumstances.

“Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, a champion of the people’s interests, has always prioritized listening to the citizens and fostering unity. His decision reflects his commitment to ensuring that the House remains truly the People’s House.

“He acknowledges the significance of the concerns raised and the attention the Bill has garnered, reaffirming that he will never support any action that might disrupt the peace and unity of our nation.

“The public is hereby notified of the withdrawal of the Counter Subversion Bill and other related ones introduced on July 23, 2024,” the statement partly reads.

The bill has attracted criticism from a cross-section of Nigerians because of the many provisions embedded in it perceived to be draconian, anti-democratic and attempts to stifle dissent.