According to reports by daily post, the federal government allegedly spent 814 billion Naira on the national anthem change, a figure that has drawn significant criticism. Prominent among the detractors is the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, who has been vocal about the need for more prudent fiscal policies.
The change in the national anthem, signed into law on May 29 as part of activities marking President Tinubu’s first year in office, has been met with mixed reactions. Some Nigerians see it as a return to a cherished tradition, while others view it as an unnecessary expenditure, especially given the current economic challenges facing the country.
Peter Obi’s Critique
Peter Obi has been particularly critical of the expenditure. He argued that the funds could have been better utilized to address the country’s economic hardships. “The President and Vice President do not need new aircraft, and the national anthem change is an indulgence at a time when the masses are grappling with poverty and economic hardship,” Obi said in a statement. He suggested that the existing resources should be redirected to alleviate the suffering of the Nigerian people.
Supporters of the anthem change argue that it could foster national unity and pride. However, critics like Obi emphasize that such symbolic gestures should not come at the expense of more critical needs. The 814 billion Naira, they argue, could have been allocated to more urgent areas such as healthcare, education, infrastructure, and poverty alleviation.
Nigeria is currently facing significant economic challenges, including high unemployment rates, inflation, and widespread poverty. Many citizens are struggling to make ends meet, and public services are often underfunded. In this context, the decision to spend such a large sum on changing the national anthem appears, to many, to be a misallocation of resources.
Social media and public forums have been abuzz with discussions about the decision. Many Nigerians have expressed their dissatisfaction, arguing that the government should prioritize practical solutions over symbolic changes. “It’s disheartening to see such a colossal amount of money spent on something that doesn’t directly improve our lives,” one Twitter user lamented.
In light of the controversy, there have been calls for greater transparency and accountability in government spending. Advocacy groups and concerned citizens are urging the government to reconsider its priorities and focus on initiatives that will have a tangible impact on the well-being of Nigerians.CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
