The Nigerian Senate has initiated a public hearing to discuss a bill aimed at establishing a new national anthem and related matters.
During the hearing, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele suggested that the second stanza of the current anthem be adopted as the national prayer, pending further consultation if necessary.
Attorney General and Minister of Justice Lateef Fagbemi stressed the importance of broader consultation beyond legislative action, ensuring that any changes reflect the wishes of all Nigerians.
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Senior Advocate of Nigeria Mike Ozekhome supported the change, citing the previous anthem’s reference to oppression and advocating for a more inspirational national flag.
Ozekhome also recalled proposing a name change to “Iregime” and suggested a national referendum to address the issue holistically.
The Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights, and Legal Matters is expected to report back on the bill within two weeks.
Recall that the House of Representatives had passed a bill to revert to the old national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee.”
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