Nigerians React As Ezekwesili Supports Aisha-Yesufu’s Stance Against New National-Anthem (Details)

Nigerians React As Ezekwesili Supports Aisha-Yesufu’s Stance Against New National-Anthem (Details)

Former Minister of Education, Obiageli Ezekwesili, has thrown her weight behind Nigerian activist Aisha Yesufu’s stance against the newly proposed national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee.” Yesufu’s decision not to stand during the rendition of the anthem has sparked a wave of debate and attention.

In a recent video shared on social media, Yesufu can be seen seated during the recitation of the new anthem, accompanied by the hashtag “#NotMyNationalAnthem,” indicating her disapproval. Ezekwesili, known for her vocal opposition to the national anthem, took to her official social media platform to express solidarity with Yesufu’s action.

She stated, “@AishaYesufu, Definitely #NotMyNationalAnthem as I already publicly conveyed. In my case, whenever and wherever the National Anthem is called for, I shall continue to sing #AriseOCompatriots as #MyNationalAnthem.”

Ezekwesili further criticized the legislative process behind the adoption of the new anthem, alleging constitutional breaches by lawmakers and the President. She refused to endorse what she termed a “Kangaroo Act of violating the Constitution.”

However, not all reactions have been supportive. Joe Igbokwe, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), rebuked Yesufu for what he termed ‘disrespect’ towards the National Anthem.

As discussions surrounding the national anthem continue to unfold, diverging viewpoints underscore the complexities of national identity and symbolism in contemporary Nigeria.