NBC ban on Eedris Abdulkareem’s song sparks free speech debate

DDM News

In a recent interview, Dr. Taofiq Raimi addressed the controversy surrounding Eedris Abdulkareem’s banned song.

The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) banned the song, citing a violation of Section 3.1.8 of the Broadcasting Code as gathered by Diaspora Digital Media (DDM).

The decision has sparked national debate, particularly on the issue ofyhttps://x.com/ARISEtv/status/1910808217615204574 freedom of expression and artistic censorship in Nigeria.

Dr. Raimi, a business and economic analyst, emphasized the importance of exercising free speech responsibly within legal boundaries.

He acknowledged that freedom of expression is a constitutional right, but insisted it must align with societal decency and order.

“Freedom must be orientated within the context of sanity,” he said, stressing the need for thoughtful communication in public spaces.

He highlighted that NBC quoted a specific violation, and it is necessary to critically interpret what that section really implies.

Rather than attacking the decision emotionally, he urged Nigerians to objectively assess the code’s meaning and the alleged violation.

Raimi said while it is common for artists to use music for protest, personal attacks should be avoided.

He pointed out that the mention of Seyi Tinubu, the president’s son, seemed like an unnecessary personal attack.

Such references, he said, cross the line between protest and defamation, especially when the person isn’t a public officeholder.

“Of course, he has complained and put it in music,” Raimi noted, “but that should not target individuals personally.”

According to him, the song should have focused on national issues, not specific personalities unrelated to government office.

He emphasized that freedom of speech does not mean one can say anything without considering its social and legal consequences.

“Every practitioner within a given organisation is guided by code,” he said, referencing rules that govern broadcasting in Nigeria.

Raimi’s comments highlight a balanced perspective amid growing tensions between regulatory authority and artistic freedom.

He maintained that regulatory codes are not inherently oppressive, but are meant to ensure order and prevent societal chaos.

The NBC’s action has drawn mixed reactions, with some accusing it of suppressing creative expression.

Others, however, support the move, arguing that even art must respect national laws and public figures’ reputations.

The case raises crucial questions about how far free speech can go in a democratic yet regulated media environment.

It also reflects the broader struggle between expression and control in Nigeria’s evolving political and cultural landscape.

Dr. Raimi concluded by urging both sides to engage in responsible discourse and not lose sight of constitutional values.

He encouraged Nigerians to express themselves, but with caution, respect, and awareness of the rules that guide communication.

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