The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has directed Nigerian radio and television stations to refrain from airing the trending song “Tell Your Papa” by veteran rapper Eedris Abdulkareem, citing its “objectionable nature”.
In a document dated April 9, 2025, issued by the Coordinating Director of Broadcast Monitoring, Susan Obi, the commission declared the track Not To Be Broadcast (NTBB) under Section 3.1.8 of the Nigerian Broadcasting Code.
This clause forbids Nigerian broadcast outlets from airing content that is judged unsuitable, offensive, or violates public decency.
According to NBC, while the song has acquired popularity on social media, its lyrical content does not match the norms of responsible transmission.
The statement titled 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.
“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 exercise discretion and refrain from airing this song to maintain responsible broadcasting standards.
“Your cooperation and commitment to upholding are greatly appreciated. Thank you, Susan Obi – Coordinating Director, Broadcast Monitoring.”
The song “Tell Your Papa,” shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday, criticises Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola
Tinubu, and urges him to confront his father about Nigeria’s worsening socio-economic conditions.
The song paints a grim picture of the hardships faced by ordinary Nigerians.
In the satirical lyrics, Abdulkareem raps, “Seyi, tell your papa country hard. Tell your papa people die. Tell your papa this one doesn’t pass jagajaga.”
“Seyi, how far? I swear your papa did not try. Too many empty promises. On behalf of Nigerians, take our message to him; kidnappers dey kill Nigerians.
“Seyi, try travelling by road without your security to make you feel the pains of fellow Nigerians. You dey fly private jets; insecurity is not your problem,” Abdulkareem sings.
