Obi: National Anthem Is Being Sung, A Man Who Wants To Be President Would Disobey And Sit Down–Wike

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has criticised the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, over his alleged refusal to stand during the singing of Nigeria’s national anthem.

According to a report by Vanguard on Friday, November 13, 2026, Wike accused the former Anambra State governor of displaying disrespect towards Nigeria’s national identity and engaging in conduct capable of promoting division in the country.

Wike made the remarks while addressing stakeholders during a town hall meeting in Ogu-Bolo Local Government Area of Rivers State. The meeting was organised under the Rainbow Coalition as part of efforts to mobilise support for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid and APC candidates ahead of the 2027 general election.

During his address, the FCT Minister questioned Obi’s alleged decision to remain seated while the Nigerian national anthem was being performed and subsequently stand when another anthem was played.

He argued that anyone aspiring to become Nigeria’s president should demonstrate respect for the country, its national symbols and established protocols.

Wike further suggested that Obi’s alleged conduct raised concerns about his commitment to national unity, insisting that a presidential aspirant should not engage in actions capable of creating divisions among Nigerians.

He said, “A whole national anthem of a country is being sung. A man who wants to be President of Nigeria would disobey and sit down. And then not only that, when a different national anthem that is not being used for Nigeria was sung, he stood up.”

The minister added that such behaviour could suggest that Obi did not identify with the country and questioned what direction he might take Nigeria if elected president.

Wike maintained that political leaders seeking the highest office in the country must demonstrate loyalty to Nigeria and uphold values that promote national unity.

Louisvilles feedback-opera-news-app@opera.com