The Democracy and Good Governance Watch Initiative (DGGWI) has condemned the alleged refusal by Peter Obi and members of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) to honour Nigeria’s current national anthem at a recent town hall meeting in Lagos.
The group also accused the party’s supporters of promoting political violence, following reports and videos allegedly showing some attendees brandishing weapons and chanting “rig and die” at the gathering.
In a press statement dated November 15, 2026, and jointly signed by Comrade Popoola Ajayi, Nelson Ekujumi and Gbenga Soloki, the organisation described the alleged conduct as dangerous signals of leadership failure ahead of the 2027 general elections.
DGGWI claimed that Obi, the party’s presidential candidate, alongside members and supporters, declined to sing the national anthem, Nigeria, We Hail Thee, but enthusiastically rendered the former anthem, Arise, O Compatriots.
The group said the action was disrespectful to the country’s national symbols, citing the National Anthem Act 2024, which restored Nigeria, We Hail Thee as Nigeria’s official anthem.
It argued that although citizens have the right to disagree with government policies, such disagreements should not translate into deliberate acts of disrespect towards national institutions and symbols.
According to the organisation, anyone seeking the presidency must demonstrate respect for the Constitution, national institutions and democratic conventions.
It further expressed concern over alleged incidents of intimidation and violence at the town hall meeting, calling on security agencies to investigate the reported display of weapons and identify those responsible.
“Elections are not warfare. Political opponents are not enemies to be eliminated. Democracy is about competing ideas, policies, programmes and the freedom of choice by the electorate to make informed decisions,” the statement said.
The group urged Obi and other presidential aspirants to publicly condemn political threats, provocation and violence while calling on party leaders to take responsibility for the conduct of their supporters.
It also appealed to political parties and their members to ensure that campaigns ahead of the 2027 elections remain peaceful and comply with the Electoral Act, the Constitution and other relevant laws.
DGGWI specifically urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to take proactive measures against political violence, hate speech, intimidation and the activities of political thugs.
It warned that no political ambition should be placed above national unity, constitutional order and the safety of Nigerians.