The joint session of the National Assembly witnessed an unexpected spectacle on Wednesday, November 29, as President Bola Tinubu presented the 2024 budget.
However, what was intended as a solemn occasion turned into a chorus of allegiance, leaving Nigerians bewildered and sparking diverse reactions.
As President Tinubu, accompanied by his vice president, Kashim Shettima, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, and other top officials, stepped forward to present the budget, lawmakers took an unusual turn.
Instead of focusing on the substantive business of the day, they broke into song, rendering what many have criticized as an allegiance anthem to the President.
The lyrics, “On your mandate we shall stand; on your mandate we shall stand; on your mandate Bola, on your mandate Bola, on your mandate, we shall stand,” echoed through the chambers, drawing consternation from some and admiration from others.
This unexpected musical interlude has become a subject of widespread criticism, with many viewing it as an act of sycophancy aimed at impressing and massaging the ego of President Tinubu.
The spectacle, perceived by some as a display of unnecessary theatrics, overshadowed the gravity of the budget presentation. Critics argue that the lawmakers veered off course, turning a national assignment into what could be described as a “comic relief” moment.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio, after finishing his speech, initiated the singing session, introducing Tinubu as a man with “track records and an alumnus of the National Assembly.”
The musical display was met with surprise, leaving some questioning the appropriateness of such a performance in the hallowed chambers.
The President, seemingly pleased with the rendition, expressed gratitude for the praise and applause, setting the stage for the budget presentation he dubbed “Budget of Renewed Hope.” President Tinubu outlined key focus areas, including micro-economic stability, poverty reduction, and social security, promising a minimum economic growth of 3.76 percent above the forecasted world average.
Amid the elaborate budgetary details, the musical episode continued to dominate public discourse, shifting attention away from critical sectoral analysis.
The scene prompted a wave of criticism, with many labeling the event as a show of sycophancy, a departure from the National Assembly’s watchdog role, and an embarrassing display.
The criticisms extended beyond the borders of party affiliations, with some condemning the act as an affront to the essence of a bipartisan National Assembly.
The “On your mandate” song, viewed as a slogan for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), was deemed inappropriate in a diverse political landscape where other parties represent the interests of Nigeria.
However, defenders of the lawmakers argued that similar occurrences took place during previous administrations, citing an instance where lawmakers cheered and chanted slogans during President Buhari’s first tenure.
Yet, others argued that such behavior, irrespective of precedent, is a reflection of the erosion of the National Assembly’s watchdog role.
As the debate rages on, concerns are raised about the potential implications of such displays on the image and effectiveness of the National Assembly.
Critics worry that these actions may contribute to a shift away from the institution’s role as a check on executive excesses, potentially paving the way for more sycophantic behavior.
While the 2024 budget remains a critical focal point for the nation’s future, the unexpected musical rendition in the National Assembly has stolen the spotlight, prompting a national conversation on the conduct, responsibilities, and credibility of the legislative arm of government.
The echoes of the allegiance song continue to resonate, raising questions about the state of democratic institutions and the conduct expected of lawmakers in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
