Presidential candidate Peter Obi and members of his Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) have refused to sing the old national anthem approved by President Bola Tinubu's administration.

At a recent event, which had Funsho Doherty, the NDC's Lagos governorship candidate, in attendance, the politicians were asked to end the event by singing the national anthem.

The anchor then began the old national anthem, which Nigerians are now accustomed to. However, Obi and his party members objected, choosing to sing the one the government has shelved.

Netizens have kicked against their action, describing it as unpatriotic and disobedience to the government.

An X user, @DoyeenOfLagos, said, "This is so wrong … we all know this but because we put emotions into politics, we won’t speak the truth … it makes no sense!"

@KAwofegha46431, said, "@PeterObi will do jail! Nothing will happen! Observe as Victor Umeh and Doherty distance themselves from the shenanigans. They should have walked out though!"

@SAMIDofficial said, "From now on, if my wife, my side chicks and all my girlfriends fails to vote Peter Obi, they should all seek their financial support elsewhere because I won’t be responsible again."

@GbemigaBab95322 said, "That's criminal. The new national anthem is a creation of the law. Even when you don't agree with it you must obey until you have the power to change it."

Peter Obi, Funsho Doherty, and NDC supporters reject new national anthem, recite old one at NDC Town Hall Meeting in Lagos today.

Video Credit : mamapee // X https://t.co/LkUAh15PxT

— Vanguard Newspapers (@vanguardngrnews) November 12, 2026