Lagos Demonstrators Reject 'Nigeria, We Hail Thee', Chant Old Anthem in Protest

Lagos Demonstrators Reject 'Nigeria, We Hail Thee', Chant Old Anthem in Protest

In a defiant act of civil disobedience, protesters in Lagos took to the streets on Tuesday morning as part of the #FearlessInOctober demonstration, intentionally disregarding Nigeria’s newly readopted national anthem 'Nigeria, We Hail Thee' and instead singing the previous anthem 'Arise, O Compatriots'. The protest was a direct challenge to one of the government's decisions under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, which saw the old anthem reintroduced on May 29.

The protest, characterized by a notable turnout, witnessed demonstrators marching from Ikeja Underbridge to Allen Avenue, among other routes. Lead protester Soweto asserted their determination to march throughout the state, undeterred by potential interference from police or military forces. Amongst the ranks was Omoyele Sowore, a prominent activist and former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC) in the recent 2023 election. He was visible and vocal at the Ikeja protest ground, supporting the movement and addressing the grievances of the gathered crowd.

The march was temporarily halted by a prophetess who stopped traffic to make prophecies over Nigeria, proclaiming that the country would be blessed and unstoppable. This momentary pause did not deter the protesters' spirit or resolve. They carried placards with strong messages demanding several policy reversals. Notable demands included reducing the price of petrol to N197 per litre, ending petrol scarcity, reversing the recent electricity tariff hike, and addressing widespread insecurity and state-sanctioned repression.

Background and Context

Nigeria has experienced significant social and economic challenges in recent times. The readoption of 'Nigeria, We Hail Thee', originally Nigeria’s post-independence anthem, has been a contentious issue, symbolizing the broader dissatisfaction with new and old government policies. The economic hardship faced by many Nigerians has fueled a growing wave of unrest and demands for systemic change.

Protests like #FearlessInOctober have become a crucial channel for citizens to voice their frustrations and push for needed reforms. The loud echoes of 'Arise, O Compatriots' among the crowds signify a longing for unity, patriotism, and a better Nigeria. The old anthem, which carries historical reverence and a call to national pride, appears to resonate more deeply with the public compared to the recently readopted anthem.

The Voices of Protest

One of the key figures, Soweto, embodied the resilience of the Nigerian spirit. His speeches emphasized the unyielding determination to combat inequality and policies unfavorable to the common man. The enthusiasm and fervor among protesters illustrated a collective consciousness geared towards challenging injustice and advocating for equitable governance.

Omoyele Sowore, a fierce critic of the current administration, brought further attention to the movement with his presence. Known for his activism and campaigns for transparency and accountability, Sowore’s involvement underscored the seriousness of the call for change. His words at Ikeja inspired many, highlighting the persistent struggle for a better governance system and respect for citizens' rights.

Economic Hardships and Demands

The economic challenges facing Nigerians have been severe. Rising fuel prices and the subsequent inflation of basic commodities have strained household incomes. This is exacerbated by increasing electricity tariffs, which have led to higher living costs. The protesters' call to reduce petrol prices to N197 per litre directly addresses this critical issue.

In addition to fuel price reduction, demands were made to reverse the electricity tariff hike. The rising cost of electricity has placed an additional burden on both consumers and businesses, stifling economic activities and household affordability. Addressing these twin concerns – fuel and electricity – remains pivotal in alleviating the economic stress experienced by the populace.

The protest also targeted broader systemic issues such as insecurity and state-sanctioned repression. Nigeria has faced persistent security challenges, from terrorism and banditry to police brutality. These issues have eroded public trust in the government's ability to ensure safety and uphold the rule of law. By calling for actionable steps to address these concerns, the protesters highlighted the critical need for a secure and just society.

Protesting Amidst Challenges

The diverse turnout at the protest demonstrated the widespread discontent and the collective desire for meaningful change. While the demonstration was largely peaceful, the presence of police and military forces indicated underlying tensions. Protesters remained undeterred, showing an unwavering commitment to their cause.

The interruption by the prophetess, while unexpected, was a testament to the diverse cross-section of society that the protest attracted. Her pronouncements of blessing and resilience echoed the sentiments of many Nigerians hoping for a better future despite present adversities.

This protest, like many before it, serves as a crucial reminder of the power of collective action. It underscores the relevance of citizen engagement in governance and policy-making processes. As citizens continue to voice their views and push for reforms, the government's response will be a decisive factor in shaping Nigeria’s socio-economic trajectory moving forward.

#FearlessInOctober stands not just as a protest but as a testament to the indomitable spirit of Nigerians. It reflects the deep-seated desire for positive change and equitable governance. As events continue to unfold, the persistent calls for systemic reform remain a crucial narrative in Nigeria's dynamic political landscape.