Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has strongly criticized the use of President Bola Tinubu’s campaign anthem, “On Your Mandate,” during the opening of the 2025 All Nigerian Judges Conference, calling it “reckless, scandalous, disgraceful, and deeply irresponsible.”
In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, Atiku said he initially thought the video aired was fake. But after confirming its authenticity, he expressed shock that the song was played right after the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, finished her speech.
Although the National Judicial Institute (NJI) denied that judges sang the anthem, Atiku said he expected either the Presidency or the Chief Justice to clarify the situation but no response came.
Atiku argued that the incident is part of a larger pattern by the Tinubu administration to influence key institutions and push Nigeria toward a one-party system. He pointed out that the anthem was played on the same day President Tinubu spoke to judges about integrity and the rule of law.
He accused the government of undermining the judiciary’s independence by allowing political music at an official legal event, saying it goes against the President’s own message about building trust in the justice system.
Atiku emphasized that judges are sworn to uphold the Constitution, not to support any political figure. He urged Nigerians to speak out in defense of democracy.
He said:
“On Monday, I was sent a video clip from Channels TV’s coverage of the opening session of the 2025 All Nigerian Judges Conference. What I saw was nothing short of an assault on our national dignity: ‘On Your Mandate,’ President Tinubu’s personal political anthem, was brazenly played in place of the National Anthem at the end of the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun’s speech.”
“My first instinct was to dismiss it as a deepfake. But once it was confirmed to be authentic an actual reflection of what transpired on the very day President Tinubu lectured the judiciary on integrity and the rule of law, I waited for an explanation from the Presidency or the office of the CJN. Silence. Total, deafening silence.”
Atiku warned that the judiciary must remain neutral and free from political influence, and that the incident should not be ignored. He called on all Nigerians who care about constitutional democracy to condemn what happened.
Wow, Atiku is really stirring the pot! Do you think using Tinubus song was harmless or a real threat to democracy? Lets discuss!
I think Atiku has a point. Using a campaign song at a judges conference could compromise impartiality. What do you guys think?
I think Atiku has a point here. Using a campaign song at a judges conference does seem inappropriate and could influence their decisions.
This is just political drama, both sides need to chill. Music is music, not a threat to democracy.
I dont see the big deal. Its just a song. Atiku needs to chill and focus on more important issues.
I think Atiku has a point. Using a campaign song at a judges conference can send the wrong message. Its a slippery slope!
Interesting perspective from Atiku, but should political figures dictate music choices? Lets discuss!