On October 1, 2025, Nigeria marked 65 years of independence. But one ritual was notably absent: the national parade. When President Bola Ahmed Tinubu later claimed he had a “nice breakfast” and slept well after cancelling the parade, many heard not the comfort of a leader but the echo of controversy.
The decision to scrap the parade—a tradition rich in symbolism—was already debated. His disclosure about rest afterward adds a personal twist to what many see as a political misstep or calculated move.
What does it mean when a leader publicly speaks of rest after a decision that unsettled national symbolism? Whether genuine or defiant, the words invite scrutiny: was the cancellation a gesture of sensitivity, cost-saving, or misreading of collective expectation? And did the rest follow relief—or relief from scrutiny?
What Tinubu Actually Said
“I’m more than grateful for tonight. I enjoyed the evening. Happy 65th Independence Anniversary. This has broken the monotony of military march-past, parade and everything. By cancelling this programme, I was able to have a good sleep, have a nice breakfast and wait for this evening. And the evening is well spent,” the Nigerian leader told the audience.
The Parade: More than a Ceremony
The national parade is a ritual that encapsulates Nigeria’s ideals—unity in uniforms, disciplined youth, show of strength, cultural diversity, respect for institutions.
When a president cancels it, the public expects a compelling alternative justification, not just rationale.
Canceling the parade has precedents—during crises, emergencies, security risks—but typically with solemn explanations and compensations (e.g. alternative programs, events).
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Here, the narrative about resting afterward shifts attention from institutional reasoning to the personal.
Between Symbolism and Strategy
A parade is more than marching feet and band music. It is a ritual of a people’s identity, pride, unity. Cancel it, and you must replace it with meaning.
Tinubu’s narration of a restful morning quarters as both defiance and vulnerability. He invests in calm, but the public wants assurances.
If leadership is about bearing the weight of expectation—especially during rituals—then rest isn’t always a virtue. Sometimes, staying awake is part of the job.
