The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has officially banned Eedris Abdulkareem’s protest song “Tell Your Papa” from being aired on Nigerian radio and television stations. The directive, issued on April 9, 2025, cites Section 3.1.8 of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code, labeling the song as “Not To Be Broadcast” due to its “objectionable nature” .
“Tell Your Papa” is a politically charged track that criticizes President Bola Tinubu’s administration, particularly targeting his son, Seyi Tinubu. The song addresses the economic hardships faced by Nigerians, referencing the removal of fuel subsidies and escalating inflation. Abdulkareem urges Seyi to inform his father about the nation’s struggles, highlighting the disparity between governmental actions and public welfare.
In response to the ban, Abdulkareem expressed his disapproval, stating that constructive criticism is often perceived as a crime by the government. He drew parallels to the 2004 censorship of his earlier protest song “Jaga Jaga,” which was banned under former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration.
The ban has sparked widespread criticism from various organizations and the public. Amnesty International condemned the action as a violation of artistic freedom and an abuse of power, emphasizing the importance of free expression in a democratic society. Similarly, the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN) criticized the ban, suggesting that it might inadvertently increase the song’s popularity.
Despite the ban on traditional media platforms, “Tell Your Papa” continues to gain traction on social media, with many Nigerians sharing and discussing the song online.
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