Political economist and public affairs analyst, Prof. Pat Utomi, has expressed strong disapproval of the President Bola Tinubu-led administration following the National Broadcasting Commission’s (NBC) ban on the airplay of Eedris Abdulkarim’s ‘Tell Your Papa’ protest song.
The NBC recently removed the song from radio and television, calling it “objectionable” and “unfit” for public broadcast. Utomi slammed this action as a serious case of censorship that threatens constitutional freedoms.
Eedris Abdulkarim, known for his politically charged music, uses ‘Tell Your Papa’ to discuss Nigeria’s ongoing economic struggles, insecurity, and issues within the government. The song, which went viral after being shared on social media, resonates with many Nigerians who feel neglected by their leaders.
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In the song, Abdulkarim raps about the hardships faced by ordinary people, saying lines like, “Seyi, tell your papa country hard. Tell your papa people dey die.” He also criticizes the lavish lifestyle of the president’s son, urging him to truly understand the struggles of everyday Nigerians.
After the ban, Utomi took to his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, saying, “Just heard NBC has banned the broadcast of Eedris Abdulkarim’s song critical of Villa incumbents. This censorship is an abuse of the constitution.” He likened the situation to historical instances of government repression, recalling that during former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration, Abdulkarim faced only verbal criticism for similar songs.
Utomi questioned whether Nigeria’s democracy is moving forward or slipping back into authoritarianism. He said, “Are we moving forward or retreating?” Critics of the NBC’s decision argue that it reflects a troubling trend of silencing voices that use art and music to challenge the government, like those found in Eedris Abdulkarim’s ‘Tell Your Papa’ protest song.
