The Nigerian government has
officially banned the broadcast of the new song ‘Tell Your Papa’ by veteran artist
Eedris Abdulkareem, following its critical lyrics directed at President Bola
Tinubu. The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), in a directive to media
outlets, cited the song's content as inappropriate and falling short of
national broadcast standards.
‘Tell Your Papa’ openly addresses
Nigeria’s current economic and security challenges, calling out President
Tinubu and urging his son, Seyi Tinubu, to inform his father that citizens are
experiencing intense hardship. The track gained rapid attention on social media
soon after its release, sparking public debate over freedom of expression,
economic reforms, and national security concerns.
In the song, Abdulkareem mixes
English, Yoruba, and Pidgin to paint a stark picture of the everyday struggles
faced by Nigerians. He accuses the administration of making empty promises and
suggests Seyi Tinubu should travel by road like ordinary Nigerians to
understand the insecurity plaguing the country. The lyrics reflect frustrations
over inflation, hunger, and the rising cost of living following key economic
reforms introduced after President Tinubu assumed office in May 2023.
Among these reforms was the removal
of the longstanding fuel subsidy, which caused a surge in petrol prices and a
ripple effect on the prices of goods and services. Inflation spiked to over
30%, affecting the affordability of basic needs and reducing the number of
meals people could afford daily. These economic difficulties, alongside ongoing
insecurity such as kidnappings and insurgent threats, have led to widespread
public dissatisfaction.
Despite this, the Nigerian
government has defended its actions, explaining that the reforms are designed
to stabilize the economy long-term. To alleviate short-term hardships, a cash
transfer initiative aimed at supporting 15 million low-income households is
currently underway. On security, the government claims there have been
significant improvements in the past year and a half.
Abdulkareem is no stranger to
controversy. His 2003 hit, ‘Nigeria Jaga Jaga’, also faced a broadcast ban
under then-President Olusegun Obasanjo, yet went on to become a national street
anthem. The current backlash echoes that era, with many Nigerians revisiting
conversations about artistic freedom, governance, and the role of music in
social commentary.
The NBC maintains its authority to
regulate content on air and has previously sanctioned broadcasters for failing
to adhere to its policies.
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