National Anthem: Ozekhome Criticizes Lack Of Patriotism Among Some Nigerians

National Anthem: Ozekhome Criticizes Lack Of Patriotism Among Some Nigerians

Popular Nigerian human rights lawyer, Mike Ozekhome, has criticized those condemning President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for reintroducing the old national anthem, ‘Nigeria, We Hail Thee.’ This comes after widespread discontent following the National Assembly’s passage of the old national anthem bill 2024, endorsed by President Tinubu.

Many Nigerians have questioned the move, calling it a misplaced priority. In response, Ozekhome lamented the lack of patriotism among some citizens, expressing hope that the reintroduced anthem would help restore national unity and patriotism.

“I am not a fantastic fan of the government, but if there is one thing I think they have gotten right, it is the reintroduction of this national anthem,” Ozekhome stated on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily. He noted that public hearings were advertised, and those who did not participate should not complain afterward.

Ozekhome emphasized that, unlike constitutional amendments, introducing a new national anthem does not require grassroots town hall meetings. He also mentioned that the reintroduction was suggested during the 2014 National Confab.