The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project has given a two-day deadline to both the Federal Government and the National Broadcasting Commission to overturn the prohibition placed on Eedris Abdulkareem’s newest protest track titled "Tell Your Papa."
The organization disclosed this in a post through its verified X account on Thursday, just a few hours after NBC imposed a ban on the protest song that criticizes President Bola Tinubu’s government.
SERAP stated that the prohibition was illegal and an infringement upon the Nigerian artist's rights to express themselves freely.
Consequently, the organization cautioned that they may take legal action if the directive is not withdrawn within the specified period.
The message states, "The Tinubu government needs to promptly overturn the illegal prohibition imposed by the National Broadcasting Commission that prevents Nigerian radio and television channels from broadcasting Eedris Abdulkareem’s latest song."
We'll have our day in court if the ban isn’t overturned within 48 hours.
According to PUNCH Online, NBC issued a memo on April 9, 2025, signed by Coordination Director ofBroadcast Monitoring, Susan Obi. declared The track "Not To Be Broadcast."
The commission referred to Section 3.1.8 of the Nigerian Broadcasting Code, which bans content considered offensive or contrary to public decency.
The memorandum entitled "Ban on Airing 'Tell Your Papa' by Eedris Abdulkareem" states, "'Tell Your Papa,' a track by Eedris Abdulkareem which has gained traction online, has been flagged by the National Broadcasting Commission as unsuitable for transmission because of its contentious content."
“Consequently, it has been categorized as Not To Be Broadcast (NTBB) because it contravenes Section 3.1.8 of the Nigerian Broadcasting Code. The commission asks your station to exercise caution and avoid playing this song so as to uphold responsible broadcasting practices.”
Nevertheless, the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria has firmly criticised NBC for prohibiting the protest song.
On Thursday, when speaking with our correspondent, PMAN President Pretty Okafor contended that NBC’s choice to prohibit the song might have an opposite effect, potentially increasing its popularity. This outcome could be particularly likely due to rising discontent amongst Nigerians regarding the nation’s financial difficulties.
Abdulkareem, renowned for his musically charged with social and political consciousness, has rejected The restriction imposed on his singing. The artist, known for addressing issues like governance, corruption, and social justice through his music, has faced this limitation.
His most recent song, "Tell Your Papa," critiques Tinubu's government for the present economic struggles and poor leadership.
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. ( Syndigate.info ).