NBC Bans Eedris Abdulkareem's New Song, "Tell Your Papa," from Media Broadcasts.

In a surprising move, the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has prohibited media outlets from airing Eedris Abdulkareem's latest track, "Tell Your Papa." The song delivers a pointed critique of the current administration, specifically urging Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, to address the pressing issues facing the country.

In "Tell Your Papa," Abdulkareem's lyrics resonate with frustration as he implores Seyi to convey the struggles of Nigerians to his father. The song includes poignant lines such as: "Seyi, tell your papa country hard. Tell your papa people dey die. Tell your papa this one don pass jagajaga." Abdulkareem further addresses Seyi directly, saying, "I swear your papa no try. Too much empty promises." He urges Seyi to experience the harsh realities faced by average citizens, advising him to "try travel by road without your security make you feel the pains of fellow Nigerians."

The NBC’s decision to restrict the song's broadcast stems from its classification as Not To Be Broadcast (NTBB). According to a circular released to media houses, the Commission deemed "Tell Your Papa" to be "objectionable," stating that it violates Section 3.1.8 of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code. The circular requests that media stations exercise discretion and refrain from airing the song to maintain responsible broadcasting standards. 

The Commission's circular emphasizes the importance of upholding broadcasting standards, stating: "Your cooperation and commitment to upholding these standards are greatly appreciated."

This ban comes in the wake of Seyi Tinubu's recent assertion in Adamawa State, where he referred to his father as "the greatest president in Nigeria's history." Abdulkareem's song serves as a stark contrast to this statement, highlighting the discontent among many Nigerians regarding the current state of affairs in the country.

As the debate over freedom of expression and censorship continues, Eedris Abdulkareem's "Tell Your Papa" emerges as a significant touchstone in the ongoing conversation about governance, accountability, and the power of music as a form of protest.