Nigeria’s political conversations have taken another interesting turn after Ambassador Reno Omokri criticised Peter Obi and his supporters over their decision to recite the former national anthem during a political gathering in Lagos.
The controversy followed a Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) town hall meeting held in the Oregun area of Lagos on Thursday, where Obi and other party members reportedly recited the old national anthem, ‘Arise, O Compatriots’, instead of the current national anthem, ‘Nigeria, We Hail Thee’.
The incident quickly attracted attention, with Omokri questioning the decision and describing the national anthem, the Constitution and the national football team as important symbols that unite Nigerians.
In a statement released on Friday, the Nigerian Ambassador to Mexico argued that anyone seeking to lead the country should demonstrate respect for its national symbols.
Omokri also referred to Section 24(a) of the 1999 Constitution, which outlines the duties of Nigerian citizens, including respecting the Constitution and its ideals, institutions and national symbols.
The former anthem, ‘Arise, O Compatriots’, served as Nigeria’s national anthem from 1978 until President Bola Tinubu signed the National Anthem Act 2024, restoring ‘Nigeria, We Hail Thee’.
Interestingly, the latest controversy comes at a time when Peter Obi is preparing for another major political contest in 2027.
Obi, who contested the 2023 presidential election under the Labour Party, is now the NDC’s presidential candidate, with former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso as his running mate.
The anthem controversy has therefore added another talking point to an already heated political environment.
While some may see the incident as a simple disagreement over national identity and tradition, others may view it as an unnecessary distraction from the bigger issues facing the country.
With Nigerians still concerned about economic hardship, insecurity, unemployment and governance, the debate has once again raised questions about what political leaders should prioritise.
One thing is certain: as the 2027 elections approach, even seemingly small incidents at political gatherings could quickly become major national conversations.
