Activist Aisha Yesufu has made a bold statement against Nigeria’s newly adopted national anthem, asserting that she would rather serve 20 years in prison than recite what she describes as “Tinubu’s anthem.”

Her defiant stance follows a report on a controversial bill sponsored by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, which proposes harsh penalties for individuals convicted of actions that could incite separatism or cause inter-group conflicts.

The bill, which has passed its first reading and is awaiting a second reading in the National Assembly, outlines punishments including 25-year imprisonment or a fine of N10 million, or both, for anyone convicted of inciting separatist agitations or defacing national symbols. It also includes penalties for refusing to recite the national anthem or pledge, with potential fines of up to N5 million or a 10-year prison sentence.

In response to these developments, Yesufu took to social media to express her strong opposition. Posting on X, formerly known as Twitter, she wrote, “Will choose 20 years in prison rather than sing Tinubu’s anthem passed by slaves masquerading as lawmakers in the National Assembly.”

Yesufu, known for her activism and outspokenness, has publicly rejected the newly adopted national anthem, ‘Nigeria We Hail Thee’. At a recent event, she was seen seated while others stood to recite the anthem, a moment she later shared on her social media with the caption, “Not my anthem.”

Her defiance has sparked widespread discussion and highlighted the growing tensions surrounding the new anthem and the proposed legislation, which critics argue could infringe on freedom of expression.