Lagos, Nigeria – Veteran Nigerian musician Eedris Abdulkareem has strongly criticized the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) after it banned his latest song, “Tell Your Papa,” from airing on radio and television stations across Nigeria.

The NBC, in an official memo citing Section 3.1.8 of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code, declared the track “Not To Be Broadcasthttp://the Nigeria Broadcasting Code, declared the track “Not To Be Broadcast (NTBB)”, claiming its lyrics violate broadcasting standards. Despite the ban, the song has gone viral on social media platforms, with many Nigerians praising its bold message.

Eedris Abdulkareem’s Fiery Response

In a defiant Instagram post, Abdulkareem accused President Bola Tinubu’s administration of being “one of the most insensitive, vindictive, and grossly maleficent governments” in Nigeria’s history. He further claimed that the government sees “constructive criticism as a crime.”

His full statement read:

“NBC JUST BANNED MY NEW SINGLE ‘TELL YOUR PAPA.’ It’s obvious that in Nigeria, truth and constructive criticism are always deemed crimes by the government. This Tinubu-led administration is setting a record for repression. Just under two years in power, and the results are frighteningly abysmal—every Nigerian knows this, except those benefiting from the system.”

He also compared the ban to the censorship of his 2003 hit “Jaga Jaga” under former President Olusegun Obasanjo, questioning why Nigeria continues to stifle free expression.

Why This Ban Is Sparking Outrage

The NBC’s decision has ignited debates on freedom of speech, government censorship, and artistic expression in Nigeria. Many fans and activists argue that the ban is an attempt to silence dissent, especially as the song critiques leadership failures.

• Social Media Reactions: #TellYourPapa and #FreeEedris trended on Twitter (X) and Instagram, with users demanding the ban be lifted.
• Historical Context: This isn’t the first time Abdulkareem’s music has faced government backlash—his 2003 hit “Jaga Jaga” was also banned for its critical lyrics.

Will the Ban Stop the Song’s Momentum?

Despite the NBC’s restrictions, “Tell Your Papa” continues to gain traction online, proving that censorship in the digital age is harder to enforce. Platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Spotify remain key outlets for the song’s distribution.

Final Thoughts

As the controversy grows, questions arise:

• Is the NBC’s ban justified, or is it political censorship?
• Will this move backfire, giving the song even more publicity?

One thing is clear—Eedris Abdulkareem remains unshaken, standing by his message despite government pushback.

What do you think about the ban? Share your thoughts in the comments