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The Nigerian government has imposed a ban on broadcasts of the song “Tell Your Papa,” a piece that takes a critical stance against the nation’s leadership. The artist behind the track, Eedris Abdulkareem, addresses President Bola Tinubu directly in his lyrics, imploring his son, Seyi Tinubu, to inform his father about the dire state of affairs in Nigeria, highlighting issues of hardship, insecurity, and widespread hunger.
The National Broadcast Commission (NBC), responsible for licensing and regulating broadcasters, communicated to radio and television stations that the song’s content violates established broadcasting codes. The body described “Tell Your Papa” as “inappropriate” and “objectionable,” determining that it did not conform to public decency standards.
Since its release earlier this week, the song has rapidly gained traction on social media platforms in Nigeria, igniting discussions about the country’s ongoing economic struggles and security concerns.
Following his inauguration in May 2023, President Tinubu implemented several economic changes that significantly affected living costs. One major decision was the termination of fuel subsidies, which had historically kept fuel prices low. This move led to a significant spike in fuel prices, impacting the overall economy.
Throughout most of the past year, annual inflation rates have hovered above 30%, with the costs of basic food items skyrocketing even higher. The financial strain has compelled some Nigerians to reduce their daily meals and overall food intake.
In addition to economic challenges, insecurity remains a pressing issue, with kidnapping for ransom persisting as a major threat. Concerns are also growing regarding a potential resurgence of the Islamist militant group Boko Haram in the northeast.
In his song’s lyrics, delivered in a blend of English, Yoruba, and Pidgin, Abdulkareem criticizes Tinubu’s leadership, asserting that the president has failed to deliver on his promises. He even encourages Seyi Tinubu to experience the realities faced by average Nigerians by traveling by road rather than utilizing private jets.
The Tinubu administration has consistently defended its economic approach, arguing it is paving the way for long-term stability in Nigeria. To alleviate immediate hardship, the government has instituted a cash transfer program aimed at assisting 15 million of the most vulnerable households in the country.
Concerning security, officials have claimed improvements over the past 18 months. However, the reality on the ground remains complex and challenging.
The NBC, as the regulatory authority, holds the power to sanction broadcasters that fail to adhere to its directives, having previously imposed fines and license suspensions for such infractions.
Eedris Abdulkareem is no stranger to controversy; he previously faced backlash for his socially critical music. His most notable song, “Nigeria Jaga Jaga,” released in 2003, lambasted the state of the nation and incited a strong reaction from then-President Olusegun Obasanjo, who publicly criticized Abdulkareem. Despite the official ban, “Nigeria Jaga Jaga” resonated with many Nigerians and became a cultural touchstone.
Source
www.bbc.com