NBC Bans Song Criticizing President Tinubu, Sparks Free Speech Debate

The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has officially banned the broadcast of a newly released song by veteran musician Eedris Abdulkareem, titled “Tell Your Papa,” which openly criticizes President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. The ban has sparked outrage across the country, with many seeing it as an assault on freedom of expression. In a statement issued to broadcast stations, the NBC described the song as “unfit for public consumption,” claiming it contained language that could incite public unrest and promote disrespect for the office of the President. All media outlets were directed to cease airing the track with immediate effect. The controversial song, which has gone viral on social media, was a direct response to comments made by the president’s son, Seyi Tinubu, who recently described his father as Nigeria’s “greatest leader.” Abdulkareem’s lyrics challenge that statement, highlighting the hardships faced by Nigerians amid rising inflation and the fallout from the removal of fuel subsidies. Reacting to the ban, Abdulkareem criticized the move, stating that “constructive criticism is not a crime” and that “those in power must be held accountable by the people, especially through music and art.” Amnesty International also weighed in, condemning the ban as a clear violation of freedom of expression and an abuse of power. Despite the official prohibition, “Tell Your Papa” continues to trend online, with supporters sharing the song across various platforms and calling for greater protection of freedom of expression in Nigeria’s democracy. As the controversy intensifies, the incident has reignited conversations about the limits of government power, the role of art in political commentary, and the state of civil liberties in the country.