Nigerian rapper and activist Eedris Abdulkareem’s latest protest song, “Tell Your Papa,” has been banned from radio and television broadcasts by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC). The NBC cited the song’s content as “inappropriate for broadcast,” referencing Section 3.1.8 of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code, which prohibits material deemed to breach public decency.
The track directly addresses Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, urging him to inform his father about the country’s deteriorating socio-economic conditions. Lyrics from the song highlight issues such as economic hardship, insecurity, and unfulfilled governmental promises.
Despite the ban, “Tell Your Papa” has gained significant traction on social media platforms, resonating with many Nigerians who feel the song echoes their frustrations. Abdulkareem responded to the ban by criticizing the government’s intolerance for constructive criticism, stating that such actions suppress free speech.
The ban has attracted condemnation from various quarters, including Amnesty International, which labeled it a violation of artistic freedom and an abuse of power. The Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN) also criticized the NBC’s decision, suggesting that the ban might inadvertently amplify the song’s message and popularity.
This incident mirrors Abdulkareem’s past experiences, notably the 2004 ban of his song “Jaga Jaga,” which criticized the administration of then-President Olusegun Obasanjo. The recurring theme of censorship in response to musical critiques underscores ongoing tensions between artistic expression and governmental authority in Nigeria.
