‘To err is human’ — police ‘pardon’ actress who muddled up national anthem lyrics

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) says it has “pardoned” Mercy Isoyip, aka Descushiel, an actress, rapper and singer, who muddled up the national anthem during recitation.

At a conference and retreat for senior police officers in Owerri, the Imo state capital, last Monday, Descushiel, claded in a police uniform just for the event, mangled stanzas of the national anthem.

A video of her rendition had Hope Uzodinma, governor of Imo state, and other guests in the hall looking in astonishment.

The clip has since made the rounds on social media platforms.

Descushiel later apologised to the public and the police institution for the wrong citation of the lyrics of the anthem at the public event.

In a post on X, on Sunday, the NPF said Descushiel has been pardoned.

“To Err is Human,” the police wrote.

“NPF Pardons Mercy Isoyip aka Descushiel after Actress Muddled up National Anthem Lyrics. Pledges Continual Support for Youthful Crafts.”

Speaking at an event, Kayode Egbetokun, inspector-general of police, said the actress may have been affected by stage fright considering the crowd of dignitaries who were present at the event.

He said Descushiel should be given another opportunity to recite the national anthem at a public gathering.