A group of former members of the Enugu State House of Assembly has called for the withdrawal of the proposed Enugu State Crowd Control and Management Agency Bill, 2026. The bill, which aims to protect lives and prevent stampedes, has been criticized for potentially undermining constitutional freedoms. The former lawmakers, led by Denge Josef Onoh, expressed concerns over certain provisions that could impose excessive restrictions on peaceful gatherings and movement.
The former lawmakers reviewed the bill and identified provisions that could conflict with rights guaranteed under the 1999 Constitution. Despite this, they defended the sponsor of the private member bill, Rt Hon Chima Obieze, describing him as an experienced legislator whose intention was to improve public safety. Onoh emphasized that the bill was not politically motivated, but rather driven by a desire to prevent stampedes and safeguard lives.
The former lawmakers raised concerns over the proposed definition of a “large gathering” as any gathering exceeding 100 people. They also criticized penalties ranging from N500,000 to N1m or six months’ imprisonment for holding such gatherings without government approval. These provisions could affect ordinary activities such as weddings, funerals, community meetings, and religious gatherings.
The forum of former lawmakers argued that the proposed bureaucratic requirements and perimeter controls could place an unnecessary burden on citizens exercising their constitutional right to movement. They expressed concerns that the bill could be used to restrict civil, religious, or political gatherings. Onoh emphasized that the timing of the proposed legislation was also a concern, given the increasing political activities and preparations for political transitions in the state.
The former lawmakers called on Obieze and the leadership of the current assembly to withdraw the bill, citing their intervention as aimed at preserving peace, democratic freedoms, and the reputation of the legislature. Onoh stated that the forum’s position was offered in good faith and based on the members’ collective legislative experience.
Onoh urged the current lawmakers to prioritize “the immediate psychological and social peace” of Enugu residents while considering measures to improve public safety. The former lawmakers emphasized that their concerns were not meant to undermine the importance of public safety, but rather to ensure that any measures taken do not infringe on the rights of citizens.
The proposed bill has generated significant public anxiety, with many residents fearing it could be used to restrict their freedoms. The former lawmakers’ call for withdrawal has sparked a debate on the balance between public safety and individual freedoms.
Key points
- Former Enugu lawmakers demand withdrawal of proposed crowd control bill.
- Concerns raised over potential restrictions on peaceful gatherings and movement.
- Bill's sponsor defended as experienced legislator with genuine intention to improve public safety.
