Eedris Abdulkareem's "Tell Your Papa": N200m Bribe Offer Highlights Govt Attempt to Silence Criticism
~~ Ahman Makams
The recent ban by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) on Eedris Abdulkareem's song "Tell Your Papa" exemplifies a concerning pattern of suppression of freedom of speech within the Tinubu administration. This action, criticized by various organizations including Amnesty International, SERAP, and the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN), signals a worrying trend that threatens Nigeria's democratic progress.
Arguments against the NBC ban and the Tinubu administration:
Violation of Freedom of Expression: The ban is a blatant violation of fundamental human rights. The right to freedom of expression, including artistic expression, is enshrined in international and regional human rights instruments, to which Nigeria is a signatory. The NBC's justification of the ban based on the Nigerian Broadcasting Code, specifically Section 3.1.8, appears selectively applied and disproportionately targets criticism of the government. The arbitrary nature of the labeling of the song as "Not To Be Broadcast" for its critical content is problematic.
Suppression of Constructive Criticism The administration's response to the critical content of the song reflects a clear unwillingness to engage with legitimate criticisms of its policies. By silencing dissenting voices, including artists and other commentators, the Tinubu administration is undermining public accountability and potentially exacerbating socio-economic problems. The song, aimed at expressing hardship, is a valid means of public discourse.
Political Motivation and Stifling of Criticism: The timing of the ban, in conjunction with the alleged bribery attempt, strongly suggests political motivation. The offer of N200 million to the artist to refrain from criticism underlines the administration's desire to avoid public accountability. The ban, therefore, serves as a blatant attempt to shield the government from public scrutiny and potentially unpopular policies. This is evident in the narrative surrounding the bribe attempt: Abdulkareem's rejection highlights the political motive.
Historical Precedent and Threat to Democratic Progress: Eedris Abdulkareem's comparison of the ban to the censorship of his 2004 protest song "Jaga Jaga" under the Obasanjo administration underscores the troubling recurrence of such tactics. The repeated attempts to silence critical voices and the lack of decisive action to address concerns signal a lack of commitment to democratic principles and progressive societal change.
Lack of Transparency and Accountability: The NBC's silence and the Tinubu administration's lack of public response to the widespread criticism of the ban further compound the issue. This demonstrates a lack of transparency and accountability, which are essential for maintaining public trust and confidence. The failure to address criticism demonstrates a disinclination to engage in productive dialogue.
Potential for Chilling Effect: The ban on "Tell Your Papa" has a potential chilling effect on other artists and commentators. This creates an environment of fear and self-censorship, inhibiting free expression and preventing constructive dialogue.
Call for Change:
The criticism levied by Amnesty International, SERAP, and PMAN is crucial. Their call for the immediate reversal of the ban and reforms within the NBC's regulatory framework is justified. The Tinubu administration must understand that stifling dissent will ultimately hinder progress and social harmony. Instead of silencing criticism, the administration should embrace open dialogue, address the concerns of citizens, and implement policies that promote accountability and address the prevalent socio-economic issues affecting Nigeria. A government that values the well-being of its people must be prepared to listen and adapt to public opinion. This includes changing policies that are causing suffering and instead, ruling with a human face and showing pity.
However, the ban on Eedris Abdulkareem's song is more than just a regulatory issue; it is a direct attack on freedom of expression and public discourse. The Tinubu administration must immediately reverse the ban, engage with the concerns expressed by the public, and implement policies that foster genuine dialogue and address the underlying socio-economic issues. Failure to do so will only exacerbate existing problems and further erode public trust in the government.
Comments
Post a Comment