By Lizzy Chirkpi
Nigerian rap icon, Eedris Abdulkareem has described the ban imposed on his latest single, “Tell Your Papa,” by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) as a move by the Federal Government to silent dissenting voices in the country.
Recall that the song, which has rapidly become a focal point of political debate, delivers sharp criticism of the current administration and its handling of national issues, targeting the elite with scathing lyrics.
The song directly addresses President Bola Tinubu’s family, specifically urging Seyi Tinubu, the president’s son, to confront his father about the worsening socio-economic conditions in the country.
The lyrics powerfully declare, “Seyi, tell your papa, country hard. Tell your papa, people dey die. Tell your papa, this one don pass jagajaga.”
He continues, “Seyi, how far? I swear your papa no try. Too many empty promises. On behalf of Nigerians, take our message to him; kidnappers dey kill Nigerians.”
The track also challenges the president’s son to experience the realities of insecurity firsthand, stating, “Seyi, try travel by road without your security, make you feel the pains of fellow Nigerians. You dey fly private jets, insecurity no be your problem.”
However, in a memo dated April 9, 2025, signed by Susan Obi, the Coordinating Director of Broadcast Monitoring, the commission said the song has been classified as Not To Be Broadcast (NTBB) under Section 3.1.8 of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code, which prohibits content considered offensive.
The memo titled “Restriction on broadcasting ‘Tell Your Papa’ by Eedris Abdulkareem,’ read, “The National Broadcasting Commission has identified the song ‘Tell Your Papa’ by Eedris Abdulkareem, currently trending on social media, as content deemed inappropriate for broadcast due to its objectionable nature.
” It is therefore classified as Not To Be Broadcast (NTBB), as it violates Section 3.1.8 of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code.
The song’s direct criticism and political messaging have ignited intense debates across local and international media platforms. Prominent outlets, including Reuters, the BBC, and numerous online news portals, have reported the ban, highlighting it as a blatant act of censorship amid growing public discontent.
The NBC’s decision, outlined in a recently issued circular, explicitly prohibits the broadcast of “Tell Your Papa,” a move that critics argue aims to suppress dissent and stifle open dialogue.
The commission’s actions have drawn strong condemnation from free speech advocates and opposition figures, who warn that such suppression of artistic expression could establish a dangerous precedent in a nation already facing significant political and social challenges.
As Nigeria grapples with increased scrutiny regarding media freedom and political accountability, Eedris’ latest offering has become both a rallying cry for the aggrieved and a flashpoint in the ongoing debate over truth and censorship.
The NBC’s silencing of one of Nigeria’s most provocative musical voices has amplified calls for a more transparent and open discussion about the nation’s future.
This ban has reignited concerns about freedom of expression, recalling a similar incident during President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration.
Then, another hit song, “Jaga Jaga” faced the same ban, sparking considerable debate about artistic license and government control over media content. This historical precedent adds complexity to the current situation, highlighting the ongoing tension between artistic expression and political authority in Nigeria.
Speaking on the development, the music veteran described the ban as a blatant attempt by the government to stifle dissent and suppress freedom of expression.
He said, “It’s obvious that in Nigeria, truth and constructive criticism are always deemed as a big crime by the government.
“Just under two years of his presidency, the results are just frighteningly abysmal from all fronts.
“This is a fact, known by all Nigerians, irrespective of religion, tribe and political affiliations, except for the few happy slaves grovelling for crumbs from their paymaster’s table.
“Well, I have travelled this road before as this is reminiscent of the ban of my song “Jaga Jaga” by the Obasanjo administration 21 years ago!
“Any wonder why Nigeria hasn’t made impactful strides all these years?” he queried.