NJI Sets Record Straight on False Political Anthem Claims
The National Judicial Institute has strongly refuted circulating social media reports alleging that judges sang a political anthem in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the 2025 All Nigeria Judges Conference. The Institute described these claims as completely unfounded and misleading.
Official Statement Denies Political Singing Incident
According to Kolade Umoru, the head of Information, Media and Public Relations at NJI, no such incident occurred during the opening ceremony held at the National Judicial Institute in Abuja on Monday. The Institute emphasized that the only song collectively rendered by participants was the Nigerian National Anthem, both at the beginning and end of the program.
The judges merely rose to their feet as a standard protocol when President Tinubu approached the podium, showing respect for the Office of the President rather than demonstrating political allegiance. This act of standing for the President follows established ceremonial procedures.
Military Band Protocol Misinterpreted
The NJI clarified that the brief musical tune resembling the political chant "On Your Mandate We Shall Stand" was played exclusively by the Guards Brigade Band. This was part of the band's routine ceremonial protocol to usher the President to the podium.
The judiciary had no involvement in selecting or influencing the band's musical choices, which fall strictly under military ceremonial procedures. The Institute stressed that at no point did any judge chant or sing any political slogan or chorus during the entire event.
Reaffirming Judicial Neutrality
In their official statement, the NJI reaffirmed the Judiciary's non-partisan stance, emphasizing that judicial officers remain fully committed to constitutional neutrality. The Institute described the 2025 All Nigeria Judges Conference as a statutory and professional gathering focused on strengthening the justice system and reinforcing public confidence in the judiciary.
The NJI characterized attempts to politicize the event as "unfortunate and a disservice to the public." They urged both media organizations and the general public to exercise restraint and verify information before circulation to avoid undermining national institutions.
The Institute concluded by affirming that the Judiciary will continue to uphold its oath of office with dignity, independence, and unwavering fidelity to the Constitution, maintaining its insulation from political activities or symbols.
