Former Minister of Education, Obiageli Ezekwesili, has openly refused to sing the reinstated old national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee.” This follows President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s signing of the National Anthem Bill into law, which had been passed by the Senate and the House of Representatives.
Expressing her disapproval on her official X account, Ezekwesili stated that no one could silence her right to dissent against what she described as an obnoxious and disgusting law. She firmly declared her commitment to singing the current national anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots,” whenever requested.
Ezekwesili emphasized her stance by stating that her chosen anthem represents her values and conscience, reaffirming that no law could suppress her right to dissent. Her comments have sparked discussions about freedom of expression and national identity in Nigeria.