By Habeeb Ibrahim
Former Minister of Education and renowned activist, Obiageli “Oby” Ezekwesili, has publicly announced her refusal to recognize the newly reinstated national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee”. Instead, she vows to continue singing the original anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots”, which was replaced in 1978.
Ezekwesili took to social media to make her declaration, stating that the new law is “repugnant to all that is of good conscience in Nigeria”. She emphasized that no one can suppress her right to dissent and that she will continue to sing the original anthem, which she believes represents the true spirit of Nigeria.
The former minister’s defiance has sparked a heated debate, with some supporting her stance and others criticizing her for disobeying the law. The Nigerian government has yet to respond to Ezekwesili’s statement.
Ezekwesili’s full statement reads:
“Let it be known to all and sundry that I, Obiageli “Oby” Ezekwesili, shall whenever asked to sing the Nigerian National Anthem, sing:
1. Arise, O compatriots, Nigeria’s call obey
To serve our fatherland
With love and strength and faith
The labour of our heroes past
Shall never be in vain
To serve with heart and might
One nation bound in freedom, peace and unity.
2. Oh God of creation, direct our noble cause
Guide our leader’s right
Help our youth the truth to know
In love and honesty to grow
And living just and true
Great lofty heights attain
To build a nation where peace and justice reign.
This is my own National Anthem, and let it be known that no one can suppress my right to dissent an obnoxious “law” that is repugnant to all that is of good conscience in Nigeria. Whatever else is #NotMyNationalAnthem.”
