Daily Justice

Abuja, Nigeria – 9 April 2025

The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has issued a directive to all broadcast stations across Nigeria to refrain from airing the song “Tell Your Papa” by rapper Eedris Abdulkareem, citing its inappropriate content. The decision, outlined in a letter dated 9 April 2025, was signed by Susan Obi, the Coordinating Director of Broadcast Monitoring at the NBC.

According to the commission, the song, which has been trending on social media, violates Section 3.1.8 of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code due to its objectionable nature. The NBC classified the track as “Not To Be Broadcast” (NTBB), urging stations to exercise discretion and uphold responsible broadcasting standards by ceasing its airplay.

“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,” the letter stated. “The Commission requests that your station exercises discretion and refrains from airing this song to maintain responsible broadcasting standards.”

The directive, addressed to all broadcast stations, emphasised the importance of cooperation in maintaining ethical broadcasting practices. “Your cooperation and commitment to upholding great broadcasting standards are greatly appreciated,” the letter concluded.

Eedris Abdulkareem, a veteran Nigerian rapper known for his outspoken lyrics, has yet to publicly respond to the NBC’s decision. The ban has sparked discussions among fans and industry observers, with some questioning the specific reasons behind the commission’s classification of the song as inappropriate.

The NBC, headquartered in Abuja, oversees the regulation of broadcasting in Nigeria, ensuring compliance with the Nigeria Broadcasting Code. This is not the first time the commission has restricted content deemed unsuitable for public airwaves, as it continues to monitor media output to align with national standards.