Overview of Eedris Abdulkareem’s “Tell Your Papa”

Estimated Reading Time: 6 Minutes

Key Takeaways:

• Eedris Abdulkareem’s song “Tell Your Papa” critiques political leadership in Nigeria.
• The song was banned shortly after its release due to its controversial content.
• It has gained significant popularity on social media platforms despite the ban.
• The ban raises important issues about freedom of expression in Nigeria.

Table of Contents

1. Release and Ban of “Tell Your Papa”
2. Content and Message of “Tell Your Papa”
3. Reaction to the Ban
4. Controversy and Significance
5. Conclusion
6. FAQs

1. Release and Ban of “Tell Your Papa”

Eedris Abdulkareem’s “Tell Your Papa” was officially released on April 6, 2025. Just three days later, on April 9, 2025, the song was banned by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC). The ban was cited for its “objectionable nature” and violations against public decency as specified under Section 3.1.8 of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code [4][6].

This quick response from the NBC demonstrates the sensitive nature of political discourse in Nigeria, especially in the current climate under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

2. Content and Message of “Tell Your Papa”

The lyrics of “Tell Your Papa” are packed with powerful messages. Abdulkareem implores Seyi Tinubu, the president’s son, to inform his father about the deteriorating socio-economic conditions within Nigeria. Here are some key themes:

• Contrast of Lifestyles: The song highlights the disparity between Seyi’s affluent lifestyle and the economic hardships faced by many Nigerians.
• Questioning Leadership: Abdulkareem challenges Seyi’s assertion that his father is “the greatest president” by calling for accountability regarding the president’s two-year tenure and achievements [4][7].

This critical view of political authority not only resonates with listeners but also invites them to reflect on the reality of governance in Nigeria.

3. Reaction to the Ban

The ban on “Tell Your Papa” has ignited robust reactions both within Nigeria and internationally.

Domestic and International Reception

• The song has skyrocketed in popularity across social media platforms.
• On Spotify, it has accumulated over 30,116 streams, while on YouTube, it boasts over 82,000 views. This engagement signifies a strong desire among the public for music that addresses pressing social issues [2].

Engagement by Nigerians Abroad

• Nigerians living abroad relate to the song’s themes of social criticism, which echo feelings of frustration about the nation’s governance. Despite limited data, the resonance of the song among the diaspora reflects a broader dissatisfaction with political leadership [7].

4. Controversy and Significance

The banning of “Tell Your Papa” raises significant issues surrounding freedom of expression in Nigeria. This incident has garnered attention from various advocacy groups, suggesting that the government is stifling dissenting voices amidst a culture of repression under Tinubu’s administration [6][7].

Historical Context

Eedris Abdulkareem has a history of challenging political norms. His earlier song, “Jaga Jaga,” released in 2004, also faced bans from previous administrations. This pattern reveals a troubling legacy of censorship in Nigeria, where music serves as a powerful medium for political expression and resistance [6][7].

5. Conclusion

Eedris Abdulkareem’s “Tell Your Papa” is not just another song; it serves as a powerful symbol of cultural and political resistance against government insensitivity to public hardships. The ban has only amplified its message, capturing the voices of Nigerians both at home and abroad. Despite attempts to suppress it, the song continues to echo the struggles and frustrations many experience in Nigeria.

This piece of art reinforces the crucial role of music in advocating for social change and serves as a reminder that voices will persist, even in the face of oppression.

6. FAQs

Q1: Why was “Tell Your Papa” banned?
A1: The song was banned by the NBC for its “objectionable nature” and violations against public decency, as stipulated under Section 3.1.8 of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code [6].

Q2: How has the song performed despite the ban?
A2: The song has gained significant popularity on platforms like Spotify and YouTube, amassing over 30,116 streams on Spotify and over 82,000 views on YouTube [2].

Q3: What themes does “Tell Your Papa” explore?
A3: The song explores themes of socio-economic disparity, political accountability, and public dissent, contrasting the lavish lifestyles of political figures with the struggles of ordinary citizens [4][7].

Q4: Is this censorship common in Nigeria?
A4: Yes, Nigeria has a history of banning music that critiques political leadership, indicative of broader issues surrounding freedom of expression in the country [6][7].

Q5: How have Nigerians in the diaspora responded to the song?
A5: Many Nigerians living abroad resonate with the song’s themes, reflecting shared frustrations about governance and socio-economic conditions in Nigeria [7].

This detailed exploration of Eedris Abdulkareem’s “Tell Your Papa” paints a picture of a musician standing against the tides of censorship and advocating for the everyday struggles of his compatriots. For more information on these issues, you can explore various articles here, here, and here.

Here is our first take on the matter Eedris Tell your Papa