The House of Representatives has moved to amend the Flag and Coats of Arms Act, Cap. F30, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004, aiming to regulate the display and use of national flags. Sponsored by Honorable Sada Soli, the bill passed its second reading during Wednesday’s plenary session in Abuja.
The proposed legislation seeks to broaden the scope of organizations empowered to apprehend individuals for abusing or misusing the national flag and to escalate fines for such transgressions.
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During the debate, Honorable Soli urged fellow lawmakers to endorse the bill, highlighting its four sections, with particular attention drawn to the proposed amendment of Section 8. This section includes the addition of Civil Defence Corps officers or any paramilitary organization authorized to confiscate or remove flags.
Moreover, Section 10 of the bill aims to substantially increase fines for offenses related to the misuse of the national flag, raising them from a nominal one hundred naira to a substantial one hundred thousand naira.
In his address, Honorable Soli emphasized the prevalent misuse of the national flag by individuals, public entities, and corporate organizations, necessitating robust measures to curb such abuses. The proposed amendment aims to address these concerns effectively.
The bill, initially introduced on Thursday, November 23, 2023, underscores the legislative commitment to safeguarding the dignity and sanctity of national symbols.