The Digest:
The National Judicial Institute has issued a formal clarification regarding the political song played during the All Nigeria Judges Conference, stating that judges stood in respect for the presidential office, not in political allegiance. This nuanced distinction reveals how symbolic gestures in Nigeria's political theater are often misinterpreted, yet must be carefully navigated to preserve institutional integrity.
Key Points:
- NJI dismissed claims that judges sang the "On Your Mandate" political song
- The Institute clarified judges stood in respect as Tinubu approached the podium
- Only the national anthem was collectively sung by all participants
- The controversial tune was played solely by the Guards Brigade Band
- NJI emphasized it had no control over the military band's musical selection
- The judiciary reaffirmed its commitment to constitutional neutrality
- The statement described social media reports as "misleading and inaccurate"
Sources: The Cable
