A social media post by the former governor of Jigawa State, Sule Lamido, on the treatment of Nigeria’s national symbols and the obligation of public office holders to uphold their sanctity has sparked a national debate.

Lamido had shared a photograph showing President Bola Tinubu standing on a floor-mounted Nigerian Coat of Arms at the Presidential Villa, accompanied by the caption: “Pictures speak: Desecration versus respect.”

The post juxtaposed the image with another showing Brazilian footballer Vinicius Junior carefully avoiding stepping on the crest of his club, Real Madrid. The comparison quickly drew reactions from politicians, commentators and citizens, many of whom weighed in on the broader question of patriotism and respect for national identity.

Among those who supported Lamido’s position was Sultan Abubakar, who argued that the Nigerian Coat of Arms is far more than a decorative emblem, stating that “respect for national symbols is a reflection of patriotism and a demonstration of reverence for the values and identity that bind a nation together.”

According to him, the Coat of Arms embodies Nigeria’s sovereignty, unity, history and dignity, and should be accorded the highest level of respect, particularly by those occupying positions of leadership, while leaders are expected to set examples in preserving national symbols.

However, Abu Sulaiman clarified that the emblem on the floor of the Presidential Villa serves as an official protocol marker where the president traditionally stands while receiving diplomats and other distinguished guests.

He compared the arrangement to the placement of the Presidential Seal in the Oval Office of the United States, stressing that the purpose is ceremonial rather than disrespectful. Nevertheless, Sulaiman stated that public perception remains important either way.