I won’t Sing Newly-Adopted National Anthem – Obi Ezekwesili

A former Minister of Education, Obiageli “Oby” Ezekwesili, has stirred controversy by declaring that she will never sing the newly reintroduced Nigerian national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee.” President Bola Tinubu recently signed the National Anthem Bill 2024 into law, officially reverting the country’s national anthem to the original “Nigeria, We Hail Thee.”

Ezekwesili’s Controversial Stand

In response to the reintroduction of the original national anthem, Ezekwesili expressed her strong disapproval, labeling the move as “absolutely ridiculous.” She took to her official social media account to make her stance clear, asserting that singing the new anthem is against her beliefs and values. Ezekwesili emphasized that as a citizen, she has the right to reject any law that she finds objectionable.

Defending Her Choice

Ezekwesili highlighted that she will continue to sing the now-discarded anthem “Arise, O Compatriots” whenever she is prompted to participate in singing the national anthem. She firmly stated that her allegiance lies with the anthem that resonates with her principles and ideals, emphasizing that no one can compel her to conform to a national anthem that she finds repugnant.

As she eloquently put it in her statement:
“Public Service Announcement
“Let it be known to all and sundry that I, Obiageli “Oby” Ezekwesili will 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.”*

The Power of Dissent

Ezekwesili’s bold rejection of the newly reintroduced national anthem underscores the importance of individual agency and the freedom to dissent. In a democratic society, citizens should have the right to express their views and uphold their principles, even in the face of official mandates.

Also read: Why the Newly-Adopted National Anthem All About Service – Tinubu

By standing firm in her decision not to sing the new national anthem, Ezekwesili sends a powerful message about the significance of personal conviction and the need to uphold one’s values. Her uncompromising stance serves as a reminder that true patriots are those who are willing to defend their beliefs, even when they diverge from the mainstream.

Final Thoughts

In a time when conformity often seems to be the norm, Ezekwesili’s refusal to sing the new national anthem serves as a beacon of individuality and resistance. By asserting her right to choose which anthem she sings, she challenges the status quo and encourages others to question authority when necessary.

Ezekwesili’s unwavering commitment to her principles is a testament to her strength of character and dedication to standing up for what she believes in. In a country where dissent is sometimes frowned upon, her actions remind us of the importance of speaking out against injustice and upholding our values, no matter the consequences.

In conclusion, Ezekwesili’s decision not to sing the new national anthem is a powerful statement of her autonomy and integrity. As she continues to champion her beliefs, she serves as an inspiration to others to embrace their independence and resist conformity, even in the face of adversity.