By The House of Representatives’ Special Committee on Constitution Review, on Wednesday, received a proposal to change Nigeria’s name to the United African Republic.
This development comes amidst the ongoing efforts by the National Assembly to amend the 1999 constitution.
Presenting the proposal at the South West Zonal Public Hearing in Lagos, Adeleye Jokotoye, a tax consultant said Nigeria’s current name was an imposition of its past colonial masters and should be changed.
According to him, it was mandatory that Nigeria change its name to reflect a new beginning which will be ushered in with a new constitution.
He proposed two names. The first being United African Republic, which he said reflected the multiethnic nature of the country — stressing the need to unite hundreds of ethnic groups.
Jokotoye also suggested, as an alternative, that Nigeria could be named United Alkebulan Republic (meaning: United Mother of Mankind Republic).
Meanwhile this call has set many tongues wagging on social media. Many dismissed the idea, saying it shows misplaced priorities. They urged the government to address the important issues affecting the Nigerian people.
Political commentator, JJ Omojuwa, @Omojuwa said: “Must have thought United in the name makes the country rich. United African Republic (UAR) like the United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates, United States. Lol. Someone spent weeks working on that idea. Probably even got a grant. Lol. I am tired.”
Wale Adetona, @iSlimfit said: “Renaming the country United African Republic will not change anything. People just want security, light, good roads and a working economy. Is that too much to ask for?”
Social media influencer, Adegoke Pamilerin, @UnclePamilerin noted: “So our problem as a country is how to change name from Nigeria to United African Republic. This is the height of madness.”
Popular musician, Timi Dakolo lamented: “Now that you people are planning to change Nigeria’s name to United African Republic, What will I do with My Great nation song?! Una Dey stress me too much.” – @timidakolo
Ada-Eze, @Real_AdaKing, said: “The problem of Nigeria is not the name but the foundation. Changing Nigeria’s name to United African Republic is like when NEPA changed its name to PHCN, still no light. It’s time we stop being Delusional and start facing reality that the only solution to Nigeria is separation.”
