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SERAP Gives 48-Hour Ultimatum Over NBC’s Broadcast Ban
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has issued a stern 48-hour ultimatum to the Nigerian Federal Government and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), demanding an immediate reversal of the controversial broadcast ban on Eedris Abdulkareem’s latest protest song, “Tell Your Papa.”
In a statement posted on its official 𝕏 (formerly Twitter) account, SERAP described the ban as a clear violation of freedom of expression and artistic liberty, warning that it would take legal action if the ban is not lifted within the stipulated timeframe.
“The Tinubu administration must immediately reverse the unlawful ban imposed by the National Broadcasting Commission, which has stopped Nigerian radio and TV stations from airing Eedris Abdulkareem’s new single,” SERAP stated.
Why Was “Tell Your Papa” Banned?
On April 9, 2025, the NBC issued a memo signed by Susan Obi, Coordinating Director of Broadcast Monitoring, classifying “Tell Your Papa” as “Not To Be Broadcast” (NTBB). The commission cited Section 3.1.8 of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code, which prohibits content deemed to be offensive or contrary to public decency.
The memo 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.”
NBC further instructed radio and television stations across Nigeria to immediately cease the airing of the song to uphold responsible broadcasting standards.
What Is the Song “Tell Your Papa” About?
Known for using music as a tool for social commentary, Eedris Abdulkareem has long tackled themes like corruption, misgovernance, and human rights in Nigeria. His new track “Tell Your Papa” continues that tradition.
The song is widely viewed as a direct critique of the current socio-economic struggles under President Bola Tinubu’s administration. With lyrics that echo public frustration, Abdulkareem calls on the youth to demand accountability—allegedly targeting the president’s son, Seyi Tinubu, in the process.
SERAP’s Stance: Protecting Freedom of Expression
SERAP has been vocal in defending civil liberties, especially the right to freedom of speech and artistic expression in Nigeria. The group argues that the NBC’s decision sets a dangerous precedent for censorship, especially for creatives and critics of the government.
According to SERAP:
“Banning this song amounts to censorship and an attack on the rights of Nigerians to access diverse views, especially those that hold the government accountable.”
What Happens Next?
If the ban is not reversed within 48 hours, SERAP has vowed to take the Federal Government and NBC to court, potentially escalating the matter into a constitutional legal battle over censorship, freedom of expression, and democratic accountability.
Related Topics:
- NBC banned songs in Nigeria
- Eedris Abdulkareem protest songs
- Freedom of speech in Nigeria
- SERAP vs NBC legal cases
- Tell Your Papa song meaning
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