Nigeria Confusion as President Tinubu Briefly Addresses Lawmakers Despite Earlier Refusals

President Tinubu unexpectedly addresses the National Assembly, discussing the newly signed National Anthem Bill and emphasizing democracy's importance. Conflicting signals and last-minute interventions spark intrigue and speculation among lawmakers and observers.

President Bola Tinubu made an unexpected appearance at the joint session of the National Assembly, contrary to earlier indications of declining to do so. Following several confusing signals, Tinubu took the floor for approximately seven minutes, addressing a range of pressing issues.

The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, initially announced that Tinubu would not speak, only to later appeal for a brief address, likening it to a cinematic "waka pass." Despite the brevity of his remarks, Tinubu delved into the intricacies of the newly signed National Anthem Bill, shedding light on its significance and implications for national identity.

Furthermore, he touched upon the planned 2024 supplementary budget and underscored the imperative of safeguarding democracy for future generations. Tinubu's unexpected intervention injects fresh uncertainty into the political arena, prompting speculation and analysis among lawmakers and observers alike.

Briefing the lawmakers, President Buhari expressed gratitude for their role in sustaining the nation's democracy for over two decades, emphasizing the importance of institution-building. He congratulated Nigeria on 25 years of unbroken democracy and highlighted the diversity represented by the new National Assembly. Buhari commended federal lawmakers for collaborating with the executive in nation-building, urging all Nigerians to work towards a better future for generations to come.