Nigerian hip-hop artist and activist, Eedris Abdulkareem, has claimed that he was offered a ₦200 million bribe by an individual who identified himself as a senator. The alleged offer came in response to the ban of Abdulkareem’s latest protest song, Tell Your Papa, by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC).
In a video shared online, Abdulkareem recounted receiving a phone call from the unidentified man, who claimed to be acting on behalf of government officials. According to the rapper, the caller promised financial support for his activism and music but insisted that Abdulkareem should disregard any other offers from government representatives.
“So I got a call from one criminal who claimed to be a ‘honourable.’ He didn’t even allow me to hear his name,” Abdulkareem said. “After claiming to be a senator, he told me he was in a meeting with Seyi Tinubu [the son of President Bola Tinubu] and some government officials. He said they would call and bribe me, but I should not listen to them because they would sponsor me underground.”
Abdulkareem rejected the offer outright, questioning the motive behind it and accusing those involved of attempting to manipulate him. “I told him I was not interested. Thieves! May God punish all of you,” he said.
Controversy Surrounding Tell Your Papa
The song Tell Your Papa, which criticizes Nigeria’s political leadership and highlights economic hardships faced by citizens, was officially banned by the NBC on April 10. The commission cited violations of broadcasting standards as the reason for its decision.
The ban has sparked widespread criticism from civil society groups and industry stakeholders. The Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN) warned that such censorship could backfire by amplifying the song’s message and relevance amid Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges.
Media Rights Agenda (MRA) also condemned the NBC’s action, describing it as an abuse of regulatory power. “The NBC has completely confused its role as an independent media regulatory body with that of a propaganda agency charged with shielding the government from criticism,” said Ayomide Eweje, MRA’s Programme Officer.
Abdulkareem’s refusal to accept the alleged bribe and his bold stance against censorship have reignited discussions about freedom of expression and accountability in Nigeria. Protest songs like Tell Your Papa have historically played a significant role in challenging authority and advocating for change in democratic societies.
