Former Senator Shehu Sani has warned the House of Representatives against altering Nigeria’s National Anthem or pledge without extensive public consultation. Sani emphasized that making such changes without broad support could be seen as an attempt to destabilize the nation.
In a post on X, Sani remarked, “Modifying the National Anthem or pledge should involve extensive public consultation and be part of constitutional amendments. Otherwise, it might be misinterpreted as a covert effort to undermine one of Nigeria’s fundamental pillars.”
This warning comes after the House of Representatives passed a bill to reinstate the old National Anthem. The bill, introduced by Majority Leader Julius Ihonvbere, was approved despite significant opposition, progressing swiftly through its second and third readings during a chaotic session.
The Nigerian Senate also convened a closed session on Thursday to deliberate on altering the national anthem. While the reasons behind the proposal remain undisclosed, the move has already drawn criticism from concerned Nigerians.
According to GISTLEGIT, the anthem being considered for reinstatement was used from Nigeria’s independence in 1960 until it was replaced in 1978 by the current anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots.”
