VIDEO: Backlash as lawmakers sing ‘on your mandate’ during Tinubu’s budget presentation

A wave of criticism has greeted Nigerian lawmakers after they were seen singing “On Your Mandate We Shall Stand” as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu took the stage to present the 2025 national budget.

The incident, captured in a now-viral video, shows the lawmakers energetically chanting the song, which has become synonymous with Tinubu’s political supporters. The gesture, however, has sparked outrage among Nigerians, who questioned its appropriateness in light of the country’s current economic challenges.

Watch the video below;

https://x.com/Imranmuhdz/status/1869348149405564948?t=47TvD5hNluY4ZzBC4TTi7g&s=19

Many critics took to social media to express their disappointment, describing the act as insensitive and unprofessional. They argued that lawmakers should focus on addressing pressing national issues, such as inflation, unemployment, and hardship, rather than engaging in political theatrics during a crucial budget session.

“What kind of leadership did we vote for? Instead of scrutinizing the budget and ensuring accountability, they’re busy singing praises,” one commenter wrote.

Others questioned the mandate the lawmakers were celebrating, with some accusing them of being disconnected from the realities faced by ordinary Nigerians. “What mandate are they standing on when the citizens are struggling to make ends meet?” another critic remarked.

The 2025 budget presentation, meant to outline the government’s financial plans and priorities for the year, has now been overshadowed by this controversy, with many calling for lawmakers to prioritize governance over partisan loyalty.

Read some netizens’ reactions as lawmakers sings for Tinubu during budget presentation;

@emeka: This is really problematic

@agwai: This is the reason the president don’t do well in Nigeria
because the people around him feed him with lies. And praise him when things is not good. Just clapping

@abyusuf: The lawmaker’s rendition of “On Your Mandate” should serve as a wake-up call, reminding us that it’s time to take a closer look at the people we’ve elected to represent us.

@danleety: I now believe there’s serious disconnect between the lawmakers and their constituents

@asheer: God forbid bad thing.
How can these set of people bring change?
#Unity btw Executive and Legislative