Veteran Nigerian rapper, Eedris Abdulkareem, has responded to the controversy surrounding his latest song, Tell Your Papa, which has been banned by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC). The track, widely regarded as a bold critique of Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, has sparked intense debate across the country.
In a statement addressing the backlash, Abdulkareem emphasized that his song is not a personal attack on Seyi Tinubu, the president’s son, but rather a call for accountability and action. The rapper explained that the lyrics were intended to highlight the plight of ordinary Nigerians and to urge influential figures like Seyi Tinubu to advocate for meaningful change. “This is not about attacking anyone personally. It’s about speaking truth to power and giving voice to the voiceless,” Abdulkareem remarked.
The song criticizes the government’s handling of key issues such as inflation, insecurity, and economic hardship. In one of its most poignant lines, Abdulkareem raps, “Seyi, tell your papa country hard. Tell your papa people dey die. Tell your papa this one don pass jagajaga.” The lyrics also challenge Seyi Tinubu to experience life without the privileges afforded by his status: “Seyi, try travel by road without your security make you feel the pains of fellow Nigerians.”
Released earlier in the week, Tell Your Papa quickly gained traction on social media, with many Nigerians praising it as a reflection of their daily struggles. However, NBC banned the song from being aired on radio and television stations, citing its “objectionable nature” under Section 3.1.8 of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code. The commission argued that the track violates standards of responsible broadcasting and public decency.
Despite this ban, Abdulkareem’s song continues to resonate with audiences online, sparking conversations about governance and freedom of expression in Nigeria. Critics of the ban have accused the government of attempting to stifle dissenting voices and suppress artistic freedom. Abdulkareem himself has described the move as an attempt to silence those who speak out against injustice.
This is not the first time Abdulkareem has clashed with authorities over his music. His 2004 hit Jaga Jaga was similarly banned for its critique of government corruption and inefficiency. Yet, Abdulkareem remains steadfast in his commitment to using music as a tool for social change. “Music is my weapon,” he said. “It’s how I fight for my people.”
As debates around Tell Your Papa continue to unfold, Nigerians are left grappling with larger questions about leadership accountability and freedom of expression in a democratic society. For Abdulkareem, his message remains clear: “I am not attacking Seyi Tinubu; I am advocating for a better Nigeria.”
