The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has prohibited Nigerian radio and television stations from airing the controversial song “Tell Your Papa” by veteran rapper Eedris Abdulkareem, citing concerns over its content.
In a directive dated April 9, 2025, and signed by the Coordinating Director of Broadcast Monitoring, Susan Obi, the commission classified the track as “Not To Be Broadcast” (NTBB) under Section 3.1.8 of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code. The provision restricts any content considered inappropriate, offensive, or contrary to public morality from being transmitted on broadcast platforms.
NBC explained that although the song has gone viral on social media, its lyrics fall short of acceptable broadcast standards. The track features strongly worded criticisms of national issues, with Abdulkareem rapping: “Seyi, tell your papa country hard. Tell your papa people dey die. Tell your papa this one don pass jagajaga.”
The statement titled, “Restriction on boradcasting ‘Tell Your Papa’ by Eedris Abdulkareem,’ read, “The National Broadcasting Commission has identified the song ‘Tell Your Papa’ by Eedris Abdulkareem, currently trending on social media, as content deemed inappropriate for broadcast due to its objectionable nature.
NBC Bans Eedris Abdulkareem’s “Tell Your Papa” From Airwaves” It is therefore classified as Not To Be Broadcast (NTBB), as it violates Section 3.1.8 of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code.
“The commission requests that your station exercises discretion and refrains from airing this song to maintain responsible broadcasting standards.“Your cooperation and commitment to upholding greatly appreciated. Thank you, Susan Obi -Coordinating Director, Broadcast Monitoring.”
The controversial song, released earlier this week, targets Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, calling on him to confront his father over the worsening socio-economic conditions in Nigeria.
In the track titled “Tell Your Papa,” which was shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday, Abdulkareem delivered a blunt message, painting a grim picture of the hardships facing everyday Nigerians.The song comes in response to Seyi Tinubu’s recent comments in Adamawa State, where he described his father as “the greatest president in Nigeria’s history.”
He continues: “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.“Seyi, try travel by road without your security make you feel the pains of fellow Nigerians. You dey fly private jets, insecurity no be your problem.”
Source : https://punchng.com/
