BREAKING: Enugu Lawmaker Withdraws Crowd Control Bill



…Says decision follows public concerns, seeks wider consultations and enlightenment

The member representing Ezeagu Constituency in the Enugu State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Barr. Chima Obieze, has withdrawn his proposed Crowd Control and Public Safety Bill, following widespread reactions and concerns over the legislation.

Obieze announced the withdrawal on Thursday, October 8, 2026, saying the decision would provide an opportunity for broader stakeholder consultations and public enlightenment on the objectives of the proposed law.

The lawmaker maintained that the Bill was conceived in good faith and primarily out of concern for the protection of lives and prevention of avoidable tragedies at public gatherings across Enugu State.

“My proposed Crowd Control and Public Safety Bill is hereby withdrawn. Let me once again state that the intention behind the Bill is born purely out of concern for human life and safety.”

Obieze said the proposed legislation was intended to establish basic safety standards for large gatherings, including adequate entry and exit routes, first-aid facilities, fire extinguishers, crowd-control arrangements and appropriate security measures.

The development comes less than 24 hours after the proposed legislation generated significant public debate, with concerns raised by commentators and other stakeholders over its possible implications for freedom of assembly and public gatherings. The Speaker of the Enugu State House of Assembly had also stated on Wednesday that there was no such bill on the floor of the House at the time.

Explaining his decision, Obieze said lawmakers have a responsibility to ensure that citizens understand the purpose and implications of legislation being proposed.

He stressed that “every law is made for the citizens”, adding that where members of the public misunderstand the purpose of a proposed law, lawmakers have a duty to step back, educate and consult more widely.

The Ezeagu lawmaker further recalled a number of deadly stampede incidents recorded in different parts of Nigeria, arguing that proper planning, emergency preparedness, security arrangements and effective crowd management could help prevent similar tragedies.

He said he would formally communicate the withdrawal of the Bill to the Speaker of the Enugu State House of Assembly while continuing discussions with relevant stakeholders on public safety at large gatherings.

Obieze also thanked residents, civil society groups, commentators and others who contributed to the debate, saying both supportive and critical views were important to the democratic process.

He reaffirmed that the withdrawal of the Bill does not diminish the importance of public safety and prevention of avoidable loss of lives in Enugu State.

“The safety of Ndi Enugu will always remain my priority,” he said.

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