- It was debated for a second reading and hurriedly pushed through a third reading amid a rowdy plenary
The Nigeria’s lower legislative chamber, House of Representatives, has passed a bill to revert to the old National Anthem.
The bill which was sponsored by the Majority Leader, Julius Ihonvbere, was passed on Monday despite opposition from some lawmakers.
It was hotly debated for a second reading and hurriedly pushed through a third reading amid a rowdy plenary.
Similarly, the Nigerian Senate held an executive/closed session on Thursday to deliberate on changing the national anthem.
Although the reason for the move has not been disclosed , the development has been greeted with strong criticism among concerned Nigerian, with many wondering why the change of the National Anthem is a priority to the Federal lawmakers amid the plethora of socio-economic challenges Nigerians are grappling with.
The anthem was used from independence in 1960 until 1978 when the present anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots,” was adopted in 1978.
Here is the lyrics of the old National Anthem.
Nigeria we hail thee
Our own dear native land
Though tribes and tongue may differ
In brotherhood we stand
Nigerians all, are proud to serve
Our sovereign Motherland.
Our flag shall be a symbol
That truth and justice reign
In peace or battle honour’d,
And this we count as gain,
To hand on to our children
A banner without stain.
O God of all creation
Grant this our one request.
Help us to build a nation
Where no man is oppressed
And so with peace and plenty
Nigeria may be blessed