The National Broadcasting Commission has officially prohibited Nigerian radio and television stations from airing the newly released song “Tell Your Papa” by veteran rapper, Eedris Abdulkareem, describing its content as “objectionable.”
In a memo dated April 9, 2025, and signed by Susan Obi, the Coordinating Director of Broadcast Monitoring, the NBC declared the track as Not To Be Broadcast in line with Section 3.1.8 of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code.
This section forbids materials considered inappropriate, offensive, or contrary to public decency from being aired on broadcast platforms.
The commission noted that although the song has been trending across social media, it falls short of the standards expected for responsible broadcasting.
The statement, titled “Restriction on Broadcasting ‘Tell Your Papa’ by Eedris Abdulkareem,” reads: “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 exercises discretion and refrains from airing this song to maintain responsible broadcasting standards.”
“Your cooperation and commitment to upholding greatly appreciated. Thank you, Susan Obi – Coordinating Director, Broadcast Monitoring.”
Released earlier this week, “Tell Your Papa” directly addresses Seyi Tinubu, son of Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, criticizing him and calling on him to confront his father over the country’s dire economic and security situation.
In the track, which was first shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday, Abdulkareem paints a stark portrait of Nigeria’s current state.
Seyi, tell your papa country hard. Tell your papa people dey die. Tell your papa this one don pass jagajaga,” the rapper declares.
He continues with pointed remarks:
Seyi, how far? I swear your papa no try. Too much empty promises. On behalf of Nigerians, take our message to him; kidnappers dey kill Nigerians.
Seyi, try travel by road without your security make you feel the pains of fellow Nigerians. You dey fly private jets, insecurity no be your problem.”
The song has sparked widespread debate online, with supporters praising Abdulkareem’s boldness and critics questioning the tone and messaging.
