Dr. Sota Omoigui, co-author of Nigeria's anthem, criticizes the reversion to the colonial anthem as regressive, citing systemic governance issues. He urges leaders to address citizens' needs, emphasizing the anthem's symbolism.
The statement by Dr. Sota Omoigui, co-author of the Nigerian National Anthem, reflects a passionate condemnation of Nigeria's recent decision to revert to the old colonial anthem.
Omoigui decries this change as regressive, emphasizing that it symbolizes a leadership that has lost its way, succumbing to a rapacious system of governance. He laments the nation's failure to live up to the ideals expressed in both the old and new anthems, citing pervasive corruption, economic hardship, and social injustice. Omoigui argues that the colonial anthem, while appropriate in its time, no longer reflects Nigeria's reality and its adoption signifies a betrayal of the country's hard-won independence.
He criticizes political leaders for their inability to foster patriotism and provide basic amenities, contrasting the lofty aspirations of the anthems with the grim realities faced by ordinary Nigerians. Omoigui urges citizens to resist this imposition and calls for a collective effort to demand accountability and genuine change from the ruling elite.
His impassioned plea underscores the deep-seated frustration and disillusionment felt by many Nigerians towards their leaders and the direction of the nation.
