FG Bans Eedris Abdulkareem’s Protest Song ‘Tell Your Papa’ — Sparks Outrage, Debate Over Free Speech

The Nigerian government has stirred controversy once again after banning Eedris Abdulkareem’s newly released protest anthem, “Tell Your Papa”, a song that boldly calls out the country’s leadership over ongoing economic and political hardship.

In a memo signed by Susan Obi, the Coordinating Director of Broadcast Monitoring at the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), the song was labeled “inappropriate and offensive,” and therefore “Not To Be Broadcast (NTBB)” on all radio and television platforms in Nigeria.

“The content is considered inappropriate, offensive, or in breach of public decency,” the memo stated, citing a violation of Section 3.1.8 of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code.

🎙️ What Is ‘Tell Your Papa’ All About?

Released just days ago, the song has gone viral on social media for its unapologetic lyrics addressing the state of the nation. Abdulkareem uses the track to speak directly to Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, asking him to "tell his papa" about the suffering of ordinary Nigerians.

From fuel subsidy struggles to economic frustration, the song touches on key issues many citizens have been vocal about in recent times.

🗣️ Opinion: Banning Protest Music is a Sign of Weakness, Not Strength

In democratic societies, art and music are powerful tools of expression, often used to reflect the voice of the masses. Eedris Abdulkareem has long been a symbol of musical activism in Nigeria, from his iconic 2004 track “Jaga Jaga” to this latest effort.

By banning “Tell Your Papa”, the government may only be fanning the flames of dissent. Instead of silencing criticism, this move has brought more attention to the song and its message.

The real question is: Shouldn’t leadership be strong enough to listen to the cries of its people—even through music?

If anything, this ban has only confirmed the very frustrations Eedris is singing about. When the government shuts down creative expression, it signals not strength, but fear.

📢 Let the People Speak

Whether one agrees with Abdulkareem or not, the right to speak, sing, and express dissent is fundamental to democracy. And in these times, Nigerians don’t just want to dance to music—they want to feel it, relate to it, and most importantly, be heard through it.

“Tell Your Papa” may be banned from the airwaves, but its echo will remain in the streets, the homes, and the hearts of those it was meant for.