We live in a country where lying has crept into our DNA so much that we no longer know when we lie to ourselves and even purse lies to make them appear as truths. Our politicians appear on national television, boldly lying to the citizens without shame or guilt, simply to defend themselves and their thievery.
The attempt by the National Assembly to revert to the old National Anthem, probably has as its underlying reason an attempt at reorienting to re-focus the citizen of Nigeria toward nationalistic ideals and patriotism. A quality the NASS members lack in themselves. Both the new and old Anthems have many ingredients of patriotism and nationalism explicitly espoused in them.
The question begging for answer is, what mindset are these people scampering to change the National Anthem approaching patriotism and nationalism with? Budget padding and wealth without enterprise are some of the disingenuous corrupt activities that weigh negatively on patriotism and nationalism, allegedly practised by these men seeking to legislate acts of patriotism for the already disillusioned citizens.
The quick passage of this nonsense is a hoodwink and the purpose for which it was clandestinely passed by both chambers as priority, even when the Senate only called for public hearing in pretence. A day or so before its passage into law, cannot be lost on us. The members of the national assembly cannot legislate patriotism if they cannot lead by example. Their bogus lifestyle in the face of unparalleled poverty and penury in the land is writ large. Without adjusting their humungous take home pay, the recent largesse on luxury SUVs- to show empathy and solidarity towards the citizens they represent- is indeed the most ridiculous of all.
They should look in the mirror and shove the new bill up their noses. If the new Anthem could not change anything, I doubt seriously if the old Anthem will bring any transformation especially to those legislating it. They have only succeeded in changing a National Anthem that will not change them.
Hypocrites!
● Uche Anyanwu Esq is a legal Practitioner and writes from Abuja.ucheanyanwu@ucheanyanwuandco.com
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