Lere Olayinka Reacts As Peter Obi Orders Supporters To Sing Old Anthem At Lagos Meeting

Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has criticised Peter Obi following reports that the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate led supporters in singing a national anthem that was replaced in 2024 during a town hall meeting in Lagos.

Olayinka questioned Obi’s decision to participate in the singing, arguing that a politician seeking to govern Nigeria should demonstrate respect for the country’s laws and national symbols.

In a post shared on social media, the FCT minister’s aide maintained that every Nigerian, regardless of political position or affiliation, was expected to obey the country’s laws.

He specifically referred to Section 24(a) of the 1999 Constitution, which identifies respect for the Constitution, its institutions, the national flag, national anthem, national pledge and legitimate authorities as part of the duties of citizens.

Olayinka also made allegations concerning Obi’s association with supporters of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), accusing the former Anambra State governor of showing disregard for Nigeria’s laws.

“I am sure this Peter Obi does not know the implications of disrespecting the National Anthem of a country he is seeking to govern.

“Law is law and it must be obeyed by all citizens. But this supporter of IPOB Terrorists was there and he participated in disrespecting Nigeria.”

Olayinka further criticised Obi and his supporters, suggesting that their actions raised questions about their attitude towards the country’s laws.

His comments followed the NDC town hall meeting held in the Oregun area of Lagos, where Obi appeared alongside the party’s Lagos State governorship candidate, Funso Doherty, and other party leaders.

Reports and videos from the gathering showed Obi and some supporters singing an anthem described as Nigeria’s former national anthem.

The development has attracted political attention, particularly because President Bola Tinubu signed the National Anthem Bill into law on May 29, 2024, restoring “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” as the country’s national anthem in place of “Arise, O Compatriots.”

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