In a move sparking outrage, Nigerian authorities have banned the airing of "Tell Your Papa," a song by Eedris Abdulkareem that criticizes President Bola Tinubu's governance amid ongoing economic struggles.
**Nigeria Enforces Ban on Song Criticizing President Tinubu**
**Nigeria Enforces Ban on Song Criticizing President Tinubu**
Authorities intervene as Eedris Abdulkareem’s new track highlights national hardships.
Artist Eedris Abdulkareem's song "Tell Your Papa," which criticizes Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, has been banned by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC). The commission instructed all broadcasters to refrain from playing the track, citing its content as “inappropriate” and in violation of the country’s broadcast regulations. The lyrics of the song resonate with many citizens, expressing frustration over the country’s economic hardships and insecurity, with Abdulkareem directly urging Tinubu’s son, Seyi, to convey the suffering of ordinary Nigerians to his father.
The song, released earlier this week, has quickly garnered attention online, igniting discussions about the pressing issues in Nigeria including rising inflation, increased food prices, and security threats from groups like Boko Haram. Under Tinubu's presidency, which began in May 2023, the removal of fuel subsidies has led to skyrocketing petrol prices, further burdening the populace. Many Nigerians are now forced to limit their meals daily as they struggle to cope with these financial pressures.
Abdulkareem, mixing English, Yoruba, and Pidgin, critiques the president's promises and highlights the urgent need for leadership that empathizes with its people. He invites Tinubu's son to experience the daily struggles faced by Nigerians by traveling through the country instead of relying on private jets.
The Tinubu government has defended its policies, claiming they aim to stabilize the economy for long-term growth, while also promoting cash transfer schemes for poorer households. However, critics argue that the current measures have not alleviated immediate pain for many. The NBC, which regulates broadcasting in Nigeria, has the authority to penalize stations that do not comply with its directives and has historically acted against broadcasters who challenge such bans.
This is not Abdulkareem's first run-in with government censorship; he previously faced backlash for his popular song "Nigeria jaga jaga," which criticized former President Olusegun Obasanjo's administration. Despite facing bans, his music has often resonated with the country’s populace, raising awareness of pressing social issues.
