Nigerian activist Aisha Yesufu has vowed to always sit down during the rendition of the reintroduced national anthem, “Nigeria We Hail Thee.” This declaration follows a viral video capturing Yesufu seated while the anthem played at a recent event.
The co-convener of BringBackOurGirls (BBO) movement was seen crossing her legs and refusing to stand during the recitation, a move that surprised many attendees. The video has sparked widespread discussion online, with reactions both supporting and criticizing her stance.
In another video, Yesufu elaborated on her reasons for rejecting the reintroduced anthem. She criticized the decision to change the anthem amidst Nigeria’s economic and security crises, arguing that the National Assembly should prioritize more pressing issues.
“As far as I am concerned, there is no new and old national anthem; there is only ‘Arise O Compatriots’ and that is what I know,” Yesufu stated. She added that she would stand for the national anthem she recognizes but will remain seated and use her phone if “Nigeria We Hail Thee” is played.
Yesufu condemned the National Assembly’s focus on reinstating the old anthem, calling it an “obnoxious law.” She expressed frustration that lawmakers are not addressing critical issues like the country’s economic decline and security challenges.
“We have companies leaving Nigeria, our GDP is going down, and there is no security of lives and properties. In the midst of all these, adults who are supposed to sit down in one place said they want to take Nigeria back,” Yesufu remarked.
Her defiant stance has resonated with many Nigerians who share her concerns about the country’s priorities and the effectiveness of its leaders. Yesufu’s bold move continues to fuel debate on the role of symbolic gestures in addressing Nigeria’s real challenges.
