By Joy Ezeilo, SAN
I’ve noticed that I only receive the usual “Happy New Month” messages. Have Nigerians forgotten that today is a celebration of our independence? I’ve replied to a few of the “Happy New Month” messages, adding, “I wish you a happy celebration of Nigeria’s Independence.” This has led to long, frustrating discussions about the challenges of life, extreme poverty, and insecurity. True talk, however, disagrees that there is nothing to celebrate.
Do you remember our original national anthem, now the new anthem? The stanza or famous first line – “our own dear native land” resonates with me. I found myself humming the song, daydreaming of better times and feeling nostalgic for what may seem like the good old days. It’s a reminder of the continuing failure of past and present leaders to build a nation where we can all lay claim to a better life as patriotic and good citizens.
Happy Independence! Nigeria, we hail thee! I wave the flag to praise your resilience @ 64. That you haven’t died is an uncommon miracle to celebrate. Do you agree or believe? Then, you must stand up and wave the national flag in solidarity!
I urge the government at all levels to diligently implement and translate the national anthem’s words into action so that we hand on to our children a banner (flag) without stain.
Our leaders or rulers should use the commonwealth of Nigeria to rebuild the country, not the pervasive avarice to embezzle public funds for personal aggrandizement whilst the nation bleeds. Again, do you agree or believe? Then, you must stand up, wave the national flag in solidarity, and demand accountability.
