Nigerian Protest Song Banned from Airwaves Over Criticism of President Tinubu

The Nigerian government has banned the broadcast of a politically charged song by veteran artist Eedris Abdulkareem, sparking a fresh wave of debate around free speech, censorship, and the country’s ongoing economic struggles.

The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) issued a directive to TV and radio stations nationwide, prohibiting the airing of Tell Your Papa—a track that sharply criticises President Bola Tinubu and addresses the hardship faced by millions of Nigerians.

In the song, Abdulkareem appeals to the president’s son, Seyi Tinubu, urging him to inform his father that “people are dying” due to hunger, poverty, and insecurity. Delivered in a mix of English, Yoruba, and Nigerian Pidgin, the lyrics accuse the president of making “too many empty promises” and challenge Seyi to travel by road to witness the insecurity firsthand.

The NBC described the song as "inappropriate" and "objectionable," claiming it breached the national broadcast code and fell short of public decency standards.

Released earlier this week, Tell Your Papa has quickly gone viral on social media, resonating with Nigerians frustrated by surging inflation, food insecurity, and persistent violence. Since removing the longstanding fuel subsidy in 2023, President Tinubu's economic reforms have triggered sharp increases in fuel and food prices. Inflation hovered above 30% throughout much of last year, severely impacting the average citizen’s ability to afford basic necessities.

The security situation also remains volatile, with kidnapping-for-ransom still widespread and renewed concerns over the possible resurgence of the Boko Haram insurgency in the northeast.

Despite public criticism, the government maintains that its reforms are essential for long-term stability and growth. It cites ongoing social welfare programmes—such as cash transfers to 15 million low-income households—as part of efforts to cushion the impact.

Abdulkareem is no stranger to controversy. His 2003 hit Nigeria Jaga Jaga, a scathing critique of political corruption and dysfunction, was similarly banned under then-President Olusegun Obasanjo but became an underground anthem.

As the nation grapples with worsening economic conditions and rising discontent, the NBC’s latest ban has reignited conversations around censorship, freedom of expression, and the role of art in political discourse.