Nigerians Fume Over Reversion to Old National Anthem
From ERIC MOORE, Port Harcourt
Many Nigerians have expressed outrage at the federal government’s decision to revert to the old national anthem.
They have called it a misplaced priority amidst more pressing issues such as inflation, security challenges and poverty.
Some have criticized the move as a return to the country’s colonial past, with the old anthem having been written by British nationals.
Others have expressed disappointment that the federal government did not consult with citizens before making the change.
Many have also criticized the government for being out of touch with the needs of citizens, who are more concerned with basic necessities like food and security than with the national anthem.
The old national anthem, with its familiar lyrics and stirring melody, evokes a sense of nostalgia and patriotism in the hearts of many Nigerians. It reminds them of their history, their struggles, and their triumphs.
Some have criticized the move as directionless and unreasonable, questioning how changing the national anthem will solve the problems of hunger, insecurity, bad roads, and out-of-school children.
According to Oyeniran Taiwo, “Nigeria’s problem is leadership, and not the national anthem. The anthem didn’t develop great countries in the world but only visionary leaders did. And we once had people of such calibre, like Sir Ahmadu Bello, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Nnamdi Azikiwe and others.”
Also, Marvellous Israel said: “National anthem is not Nigeria’s problem today.”
Ends.