A faction of the Yoruba sociopolitical organization, Afenifere, loyal to the ideology of the late Chief Ayo Adebanjo, has voiced strong disapproval of the Federal Government’s ban on the song “Tell Your Papa” by Nigerian artist Eedris Abdulkareem.
In a statement released on Wednesday, signed by its Acting Chairman, Oba Oladipo Olaitan, and National Publicity Secretary, Justice Faloye, the group described the ban as an infringement on freedom of speech, a key principle in any democratic setting.
The group defended the song, saying it was a legitimate artistic response to remarks made by Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, regarding the nation’s condition.
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According to Afenifere, the track contained no offensive content and should not have been censored.
They stated that such a ban indicates a growing tendency toward authoritarianism, showing a leadership style that is increasingly out of touch with the challenges faced by ordinary Nigerians.
“This act reflects a preference for control over creativity and dialogue,” they said.
Afenifere warned that silencing musicians and critics erodes the foundation of democracy and discourages creative engagement, which is essential for national progress.
In the same statement, the group also raised concern over the worsening security situation in Nigeria. Citing data from HumAngle’s Conflict Tracker, they noted that 1,420 citizens had been killed and 537 kidnapped in the first three months of 2025 alone.
They pointed to recent violent incidents in Ondo, Benue, Edo, and Nasarawa states, where attacks by herders and bandits have resulted in heavy casualties.
In Ondo State, four communities in Akure North LGA were attacked, leaving 20 people dead and nine surveyors kidnapped.
Meanwhile, in Benue State, three members of a security unit were ambushed and killed, sparking widespread outrage and property damage.
Afenifere called on the Federal Government to take urgent steps to end open grazing and introduce ranching as a permanent solution to herder-related violence.
They also urged the creation of state policing to boost internal security, stressing that Nigeria’s current centralized police system is inadequate for its size and diversity.
Finally, the group appealed to President Tinubu to lead a restructuring process aimed at establishing genuine federalism—one that ensures justice, fairness, and sustainable peace across the country.
