The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has demanded an immediate reversal of the ban on Eedris Abdulkareem’s protest song, “Tell Your Papa,” calling the restriction a violation of freedom of expression and threatening legal action if the government fails to comply within 48 hours.
In a strongly worded statement posted on its official X (formerly Twitter) account on Thursday, SERAP condemned the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) for classifying the song as “Not To Be Broadcast” (NTBB), warning that the move sets a dangerous precedent for censorship in Nigeria.
NBC’s Controversial Ban
The NBC, in a memo dated April 9, 2025, and signed by Susan Obi, its Coordinating Director of Broadcast Monitoring, directed radio and TV stations to stop airing Abdulkareem’s latest single, citing Section 3.1.8 of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code, which prohibits content deemed “offensive or against public decency.”
The memo stated:
“The song ‘Tell Your Papa’ by Eedris Abdulkareem has been classified as NTBB due to its objectionable nature. Broadcasters are advised to refrain from airing it to uphold responsible broadcasting standards.”
SERAP Fires Back: ‘Reverse the Ban or Face Legal Action’
SERAP swiftly condemned the directive, arguing that it infringes on fundamental rights to free speech and artistic expression under Nigeria’s constitution and international human rights laws.
“The Tinubu administration must immediately reverse this unlawful ban,” SERAP declared. “If the directive is not rescinded within 48 hours, we will take legal action to challenge this suppression of dissent.”
Eedris Abdulkareem: A Voice of Protest Under Fire
Abdulkareem, a veteran musician known for his politically charged lyrics, has long used his music to critique government policies, corruption, and social injustice. His new song, reportedly a scathing commentary on Nigeria’s economic struggles and governance failures, has resonated widely on social media, prompting the NBC’s crackdown.
Critics argue that the ban reflects a broader pattern of censorship and intimidation against dissenting voices, particularly artists and activists who challenge the status quo.
Growing Backlash Against NBC’s Decision
Civil society groups, free speech advocates, and fans have rallied behind Abdulkareem, condemning the NBC’s move as an overreach of regulatory power. Many see it as an attempt to stifle criticism of the government amid rising public discontent over economic hardship.
“This is not about decency; it’s about silencing opposition,” said human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong. “When protest music is banned, it only proves that the message is hitting where it hurts.”
What Next?
With SERAP’s 48-hour ultimatum ticking, all eyes are on the Federal Government and the NBC to see if they will reverse the ban or face a legal showdown. If the case proceeds to court, it could set a crucial precedent for freedom of expression in Nigeria’s creative and media landscape.
For now, “Tell Your Papa” continues to circulate online, with many Nigerians sharing it in defiance of the ban—a testament to the enduring power of music as a tool of resistance.
Key Takeaways:
- SERAP demands reversal of NBC’s ban on Eedris Abdulkareem’s protest song within 48 hours.
- NBC cited “objectionable content,” but critics see it as political censorship.
- Abdulkareem’s track critiques economic hardship and governance failures.
- Legal battle looms if the government refuses to back down.
- Public backlash grows as Nigerians rally behind artistic freedom.
The controversy highlights the ongoing tension between state regulation and free expression in Nigeria, raising critical questions about democracy, dissent, and who gets to control the narrative.