In a direct confrontation with Nigeria’s ruling elite, renowned rapper Eedris Abdulkareem has unleashed a scathing response to Seyi Tinubu’s recent remarks about his father, President Bola Tinubu, whom he called “the greatest president in Nigeria’s history.” Released on Sunday via X (formerly Twitter), Abdulkareem’s track “Tell Your Papa” offers a powerful and unfiltered critique of the Nigerian government’s failure to address the pressing challenges that plague ordinary citizens—namely insecurity, economic hardship, and systemic corruption. Despite the song’s swift ban by Nigerian authorities, its potent message has sparked a viral wave, resonating deeply with Nigerians who are fed up with political inaction.
Abdulkareem’s lyrics are nothing short of a direct shot at the Tinubu family’s apparent disconnect from the reality of everyday Nigerians. “Seyi, tell your papa country hard. Tell your papa people dey die. Tell your papa this one don pass jagajaga,” he raps, calling out the chaos that has engulfed the nation under this administration. The word “jagajaga,” a slang symbolising disorder, perfectly captures the worsening state of the country—where basic security, healthcare, and welfare have become distant dreams for millions.
The song does not hold back in its criticism of Nigeria’s worsening security situation. Abdulkareem takes aim at the Tinubu family’s insulated life, contrasting it with the painful experiences of ordinary Nigerians. “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,” the rapper spits. These words reflect the harsh truth of a country where citizens are at the mercy of kidnappers and bandits, while the elite remain secure in their fortified bubbles. Abdulkareem challenges the powerful to walk a mile in the shoes of the common man and experience the same fears and struggles.
“Tell Your Papa” draws its strength from a long tradition of protest music, a tool that has been instrumental in challenging oppressive regimes. This track carries the same fearless spirit as Abdulkareem’s iconic 2000s anthem “Jaga Jaga,” which similarly denounced political corruption. However, the swift move to ban the song only seems to amplify its impact. While authorities may attempt to suppress the message, the power of social media ensures that Abdulkareem’s words reach millions, stirring up conversations and reigniting the call for political accountability. In an age where censorship is often met with viral defiance, the song’s ban might only fuel the growing fire of discontent.
Even with its ban, “Tell Your Papa” has already achieved its purpose: to awaken the masses and force the conversation about the failure of Nigeria’s leadership into the public spotlight. Abdulkareem’s unapologetic lyrics reflect the deep frustration of Nigerians who feel betrayed by a system that promises change but delivers little. The track is a rallying cry for citizens to hold their leaders accountable and demand tangible results. For many Nigerians, it’s a stark reminder that the country’s elite are detached from the struggles of the people, and the time for empty promises has long passed.
As “Tell Your Papa” continues to reverberate through Nigeria’s social media channels, its message is unmistakable: the leadership must change its course. Abdulkareem’s anthem highlights the urgent need for real reform, one that prioritizes the safety, prosperity, and dignity of all Nigerians, not just the privileged few. And despite its ban, the song’s impact is clear—no political power can suppress the voice of a people united in their demand for change.
– Inah Boniface Ocholi writes from Ayah – Igalamela/Odolu LGA, Kogi state.
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