NASS Move to Return Old National Anthem Divides Nigerians

 

Last Thursday, a bill to replace Nigeria's current National Anthem with the old one was introduced and quickly passed in the National Assembly. This move has sparked widespread debate across the country.

 

On Monday, Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, criticized the hasty passage of the bill, arguing that such a significant decision should involve broader public consultation, including a plebiscite or referendum.

 

Fagbemi emphasized the importance of public involvement in choosing a national anthem to ensure it reflects the collective aspirations of Nigerians. He stated that legislative action alone is insufficient for such a crucial national symbol.

 

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris Malagi, supported this view, suggesting that the discussion should extend beyond the anthem to encompass national identity. He pointed out that the old anthem contains lines that may not resonate with current realities.

 

Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Chief Mike Ozekhome, called for wider consultations to ensure general acceptability of any proposed anthem. While supporting the reversion to the old anthem, he stressed the need for thorough public engagement.

 

Former APGA National Chairman, Maxi Okwu, criticized the lawmakers for focusing on the anthem amid pressing issues like economic hardship and insecurity. He described the move as a distraction from more urgent national problems.

 

Entrepreneur Adebowale Wifred echoed this sentiment, lamenting that the lawmakers are ignoring serious issues affecting Nigerians. He questioned the relevance of changing the anthem when the country faces significant challenges.

 

Social worker Vivian James, however, supported the lawmakers, arguing that the old anthem promotes national unity more effectively. She believes its message is crucial for fostering unity in Nigeria's diverse society.

 

Legal practitioner Marcellus Onah criticized the lawmakers for neglecting critical issues like inflation, insecurity, and corruption. He argued that changing the anthem will not address the country's core problems and urged the National Assembly to focus on legislation that brings tangible benefits to Nigerians. 

Overall, the move to revert to the old national anthem has sparked a heated debate, highlighting the need for broader public involvement in such significant national decisions.