Viral Gists

NBC Bans Eedris Abdulkareem’s “Tell Your Papa” Song Over Objectionable Content

Published

4 days ago

11/04/2025

The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has officially banned the airing of Eedris Abdulkareem’s “Tell Your Papa” song across Nigerian radio and television stations. The decision, announced in a memo dated April 9, 2025, cited the song’s “objectionable nature” as the primary reason for the ban.

The commission classified the track as Not To Be Broadcast (NTBB), which is a status given to content deemed inappropriate for public consumption under Section 3.1.8 of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code.

The ban comes after Eedris Abdulkareem’s “Tell Your Papa” song gained considerable traction on social media, sparking heated debates due to its content. The NBC’s memo, signed by the Coordinating Director of Broadcast Monitoring, Susan Obi, explained that the song’s lyrics did not adhere to the responsible broadcasting standards set by the commission.

According to the NBC, while the song has been widely shared online, it was considered offensive for broadcast due to its provocative nature. The controversial track, which was released earlier this week, takes direct aim at Seyi Tinubu, the son of President Bola Tinubu.

In the song, Eedris Abdulkareem’s “Tell Your Papa” song calls on Seyi Tinubu to confront his father over the worsening socio-economic conditions in the country. The lyrics criticize President Tinubu’s leadership, urging his son to acknowledge the hardships faced by ordinary Nigerians.

“Tell Your Papa” begins with Abdulkareem addressing Seyi Tinubu, rapping, “Seyi, tell your papa country hard. Tell your papa people dey die. Tell your papa this one don pass jagajaga.” The song goes on to accuse the government of failing the people, highlighting issues such as insecurity and the country’s economic challenges.

Eedris Abdulkareem’s “Tell Your Papa” song challenges the president’s son for living a life of luxury, flying in private jets while ordinary Nigerians struggle with the consequences of a crumbling nation.
The rapper further critiques the political elite’s disconnection from the realities faced by Nigerians.

Abdulkareem’s lyrics are a direct response to comments made by Seyi Tinubu in Adamawa State, where he referred to his father as “the greatest president in Nigeria’s history.” Eedris Abdulkareem’s “Tell Your Papa” song delivers a powerful retort, accusing the Tinubu administration of offering empty promises and failing to address the country’s pressing issues.

One of the more biting lines in the track says, “Seyi, how far? I swear your papa no try. Too much empty promises. On behalf of Nigerians, take our message to him; kidnappers dey kill Nigerians.” The song also touches on the security situation in the country, which has become a major concern for citizens.

Abdulkareem challenges Seyi Tinubu to experience the hardships of Nigerians firsthand, suggesting that he should travel by road without the protection of his security team to truly understand the suffering faced by the people.

In response to the ban, many Nigerians have taken to social media to express their opinions on the song and the NBC’s decision. While some defend Abdulkareem’s right to express his political views through music, others argue that the song’s provocative nature may not be suitable for all audiences.

The ban has also sparked a wider conversation about freedom of expression, especially in the context of political protest music.

Eedris Abdulkareem’s “Tell Your Papa” song has a long history of addressing socio-political issues in Nigeria. Known for his bold and often controversial music, Abdulkareem uses his songs to speak out against corruption, inequality, and governmental failure.

“Tell Your Papa” appears to be the latest in a series of songs aimed at holding those in power accountable for their actions and the state of the nation. The NBC’s ban of the song has raised questions about the role of the government in regulating music content and the boundaries of free expression in Nigeria.

While the commission’s actions are framed as part of its mandate to uphold broadcast standards, critics argue that the decision reflects a broader attempt to silence dissenting voices. As the debate continues, the song remains a powerful statement from Abdulkareem, reflecting the frustrations of many Nigerians who feel unheard by their leaders.

While the track may no longer be heard on Nigerian airwaves, its presence on social media ensures that the message will continue to resonate with those who support the artist’s message of political accountability.

The National Broadcasting Commission’s decision to ban Eedris Abdulkareem’s “Tell Your Papa” song serves as a reminder of the tension between freedom of expression and governmental regulation, a debate that is likely to intensify as the song’s message continues to spread across the internet.