Aiyenale Fred Jimoh Proposes ‘Anti-Coup And Democratic Stability Act 2025’ To Strengthen Nigeria’s Democracy

In a bold legislative initiative aimed at safeguarding Nigeria’s democratic order, Chief (Hon.) Aiyenale Fred Jimoh has presented a draft bill titled “Anti-Coup and Democratic Stability Act 2025” to the National Assembly for consideration.

Chief Jimoh said the bill, which has been formally transmitted to Senator Sunday Karimi, representing Kogi West Senatorial District, for sponsorship, seeks to fortify the country’s legal framework against any form of unconstitutional change of government.

“Nigeria’s over two decades of uninterrupted democratic rule is a cherished achievement that must be guarded with unwavering resolve,” Chief Jimoh stated in Abuja. “Recent events within our borders and across the West African sub-region underscore the critical need for a robust legal structure to deter and punish those who seek to undermine our constitutional order.”

Key Provisions of the Proposed Bill

According to Chief Jimoh, the Anti-Coup and Democratic Stability Act 2025 seeks to:

• Criminalize Unconstitutional Power Seizure: Clearly define and criminalize all actions related to unconstitutional changes of government, going beyond the existing general treason laws.
• Target Sponsors and Financiers: Impose heavy penalties, including long-term imprisonment and total asset forfeiture, on individuals or corporate entities found to be funding or materially supporting coup activities.
• Hold Abettors and Inciters Accountable: Provide sanctions for persons or media outlets found to be inciting or aiding any form of unconstitutional takeover.
• Mandate Reporting by Security Personnel: Compel members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies to report knowledge of coup plots, with strict penalties for concealment.
• Exclude Clemency for Offenders: Bar anyone convicted under the Act from benefiting from presidential pardon or clemency to serve as a strong deterrent.

Chief Jimoh described the proposed legislation as a “proactive and necessary measure to protect Nigeria’s democracy, reassure citizens, and demonstrate the nation’s firm commitment to constitutional governance.”

He urged the National Assembly to give the bill urgent attention and expedite its passage, saying, “This is the time to send a clear message that any attempt to derail our democracy will be met with the full force of the law.”

The Anti-Coup and Democratic Stability Act 2025 is intended to complement existing constitutional and criminal laws, providing a stronger legal shield against threats to Nigeria’s democratic stability.