SERAP sues Tinubu's government over ban on Eedris Abdulkareem's diss track
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has initiated legal action against the Nigerian government and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) following their failure to reverse the ban on Eedris Abdulkareem’s song, "Tell Your Papa." The song, which critiques socio-economic issues and calls for government accountability, was deemed inappropriate by the government, leading to a ban that sparked public debate.
SERAP's lawsuit follows a 48-hour ultimatum issued on April 10, 2025, which was ignored by the government and the NBC. SERAP contends that the ban violates Eedris Abdulkareem’s fundamental right to freedom of expression, as protected by Nigeria's constitution.
The song "Tell Your Papa" addresses the suffering of the masses and urges government accountability. Eedris Abdulkareem specifically directed a message to Seyi Tinubu, the son of President Bola Tinubu, encouraging him to convey the struggles of ordinary Nigerians to his father. This bold move ignited significant debate, linking the political elite to the challenges faced by the common populace.
The government, however, chose to silence the song, instructing all radio and television stations to refrain from playing it, labeling it a form of public disturbance. SERAP swiftly condemned the ban, asserting that it infringes upon Abdulkareem's right to freely express his views through music.
SERAP’s legal team described the ban as arbitrary, illegal, and unconstitutional. They emphasized the breach of Eedris Abdulkareem’s right to freedom of expression, a critical point in the ongoing debate about censorship and artistic freedom in Nigeria. SERAP has voiced concerns over the increasing trend of restricting artistic expression under the guise of protecting public morals and decency.
Eedris Abdulkareem has criticized the government's decision and shared his perspective on the matter, outlining his intentions moving forward after the ban. The lawsuit filed by SERAP marks a significant escalation in the conflict between artistic expression and governmental control in Nigeria.
