Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has criticised former Anambra State Governor and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, over his participation in the singing of Nigeria’s former national anthem at a political gathering in Lagos.
Wike described the incident as a demonstration of lawlessness, arguing that Obi’s decision not to stand for the current national anthem while joining others in singing the previous version raised questions about his commitment to national unity.
He made the remarks on Friday during a stakeholders’ town hall meeting in Ogu-Bolo Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The controversy followed an NDC town hall meeting held in the Oregun area of Lagos on Thursday, November 12. During the event, the moderator asked attendees to stand for the current national anthem, but Obi, alongside the party’s Lagos governorship candidate, Funso Doherty, and other supporters, did not respond to the request. The moderator subsequently switched to the former anthem, ‘Arise, O Compatriots’, which the gathering sang.
Reacting to the development, Wike questioned Obi’s suitability for the presidency, alleging that his actions suggested a lack of respect for Nigeria’s national identity. He argued that someone seeking to lead the country should demonstrate respect for its national symbols rather than engage in actions he believes could create division.
Wike also criticised Obi’s political history, accusing him of frequently leaving political parties whenever internal disagreements emerge. He further questioned the former Anambra governor’s record on local government elections, arguing that no elections were conducted throughout his eight-year administration despite his public emphasis on the rule of law.
The FCT minister also took aim at the opposition political figures, including former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, questioning their records in public office. He urged residents of Ogu-Bolo to support President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027, while highlighting projects and federal appointments he said had benefited the community.
The national anthem controversy comes as political activities gradually intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, with the NDC and other opposition groups positioning themselves for the next presidential contest.
