The House of Representatives has passed a bill to revert to the old national anthem “Nigeria, We Hail Thee”.
The bill passed through its first, second, and third readings within minutes.
The lead proponent for the return to the old anthem, House Leader Professor Julius Ihonvbere, emphasized the importance of viewing the anthem as a national symbol and an authoritative emblem that reflects the nation’s realities.
The old anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” was replaced by the current one, “Arise, O Compatriots,” in 1978.
However, Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda opposed the bill, arguing that the old anthem carries a colonial legacy, which was the reason for its replacement. He noted that the old anthem was authored and composed by Britons and questioned the priority of changing the anthem amidst more pressing national issues.
Despite this opposition, the bill was expedited and passed by the lawmakers.
In the Senate, the bill swiftly moved through the first and second readings. It has been referred to the Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters, which is expected to report back within two weeks.
The Senators, appearing unanimous in their support for the bill, argued that it would serve as a better symbol for unity, peace, and prosperity compared to the current anthem.
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