What in the World Why has Nigeria banned Afrobeats song Tell Your Papa?
Apr 17, 2025
Makuochi Okafor, a BBC reporter based in Lagos, dives into the controversy surrounding the ban of Eedris Abdulkareem's song 'Tell Your Papa.' The track critiques President Bola Tinubu amidst Nigeria's spiraling issues like hunger and insecurity. Okafor discusses the government's media regulations and the public outcry over censorship, reflecting the discontent of a frustrated youth. The ban has inadvertently fueled activism, highlighting music's role as a powerful medium for social change in Nigeria.
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Song Critiques Nigerian Leadership
- "Tell Your Papa" criticizes Nigeria's president and his son about the country's hardship and insecurity.
- The song highlights the high cost of living, corruption, and insecurity in Nigeria.
Government Bans Song for Decency
- The Nigerian Broadcasting Commission banned the song as inappropriate under broadcast standards.
- The agency functions under the federal government to regulate TV and radio content nationwide.
Song Reflects Nigerian Reality
- The issues raised in "Tell Your Papa" reflect real struggles Nigerians face today including insecurity and poverty.
- Protests and online movements indicate public frustration with economic and security conditions.