Veteran Nigerian rapper and social activist Eedris Abdulkareem has fiercely criticized the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) for banning his latest song, “Tell Your Papa,” from radio and television stations across the country. The song, which targets President Bola Tinubu’s government and its economic policies, was deemed “objectionable” by the NBC under Section 3.1.8 of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code, which prohibits content considered inappropriate or offensive.
Abdulkareem’s song was released in response to comments by Seyi Tinubu, the president’s son, who described his father as “the greatest president in Nigeria’s history.” The rapper’s lyrics paint a stark picture of Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges, urging Seyi to convey the hardships faced by ordinary Nigerians to his father. Despite gaining traction on social media, the song’s critical stance against the government led to its classification as Not To Be Broadcast (NTBB).
Reacting to the ban, Abdulkareem accused the NBC of attempting to suppress free speech and dissent. He argued that in Nigeria, “truth and constructive criticism is always deemed as a big crime by the government”. This sentiment reflects broader concerns about the freedom of expression in Nigeria, where artists and activists often face challenges when criticizing those in power.
The ban on “Tell Your Papa” is not Abdulkareem’s first encounter with censorship. In 2002, his song “Jaga Jaga” was also banned for its depiction of corruption and suffering in Nigeria. The recurrence of such bans highlights the ongoing tension between artistic freedom and government regulation in the country.
Abdulkareem’s stance has sparked a national conversation about the role of art in political discourse and the limits of free speech in Nigeria. While some view the ban as necessary to maintain public decency, others see it as an overreach that stifles critical voices essential for democratic accountability. As the debate continues, Abdulkareem remains resolute in his belief that constructive criticism should not be criminalized, emphasizing the importance of artistic expression in challenging societal norms and political policies.
