Aviation Minister Accuses NDC of Secessionism Over Use of Old Anthem

Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation, has stirred controversy by accusing the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) of secessionist tendencies for using the old national anthem at a recent event in Lagos. At the event, attended by the NDC’s presidential candidate Peter Obi, the old anthem was sung instead of the current one. Keyamo took to social media to express his displeasure, stating that the use of the old anthem suggests a secessionist agenda. According to Punch Newspapers, he wrote, “The use of the old National Anthem by the NDC today in Lagos suggests secessionist tendencies.” The NDC has not yet responded to Keyamo’s accusations. It is worth noting that the old anthem was the national anthem of Nigeria until a new one was adopted in 1978. The use of the old anthem is not uncommon, particularly in cultural and historical contexts. However, in the political climate leading up to the 2027 elections, any perceived disregard for established norms could be interpreted as a political move. According to THISDAYLIVE, the NDC and Keyamo are engaged in a war of words over the incident. It remains to be seen how this controversy will unfold in the run-up to the elections.