Singer Naira Marley has pledged to sing a new national anthem for the alleged newly proposed name for Nigeria – the United African Republic.
The 30-year-old took to social media on Wednesday, June 2 to air his desire to sing the anthem.
Unconfirmed reports say the House of Representatives’ special committee on constitution review received a proposal to change Nigeria’s name to the United African Republic.
The proposal was allegedly submitted by a tax consultant Adeleye Jokotoye at the south-west zonal public hearing in Lagos on Wednesday, June 2. According to the reports, while presenting the proposal, Jokotoye said Nigeria’s current name was an imposition of its past colonial masters and should be changed. He also reportedly said a change of name for the country would physically and psychologically reflect a new beginning.
Reacting to it, Naira Marley posted simultaneously on Instastories and on Twitter saying, “Omo Na me go sing the new national Anthem for UAR.”
His tweet was met with different reactions as some of his fans said that changing the name Nigeria does not tackle pressing issues while others supported him, adding that they were solidly behind him.
Naira Marley is known to be very vocal with his opinions as he was recently the subject of discussion weeks back when he revealed his sexual fantasy.
The controversial singer was not the only musician who spoke on the matter.
Singer Timi Dakolo notably commented, saying “Now that you people are planning to change Nigeria’s name to United African Republic, What will I do with My Great nation song?! Una Dey stress me too much.”
Timi released ‘Great Nation’ in 2011 which has been considered one of Nigeria’s most unifying songs.
Big Brother Naija star Tacha also tweeted, “United African Republic?? Renaming Nigeria is not Nigerians PROBLEM!! Give us GOOD ROADS, SECURITY, ELECTRICITY, HEALTH CARE.. Just give us BASIC AMENITIES.”
