SERAP Demands Immediate Reversal of NBC's Ban on Eedris Abdulkareem's Protest Song "Tell Your Papa"
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the Federal Government of Nigeria and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), urging the immediate reversal of the ban imposed on Eedris Abdulkareem's latest protest song, "Tell Your Papa."
The NBC recently prohibited the broadcast of "Tell Your Papa," citing violations of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code. The song, known for its critical stance on governmental policies, has sparked debates on the boundaries of artistic expression and censorship in Nigeria.
SERAP contends that the ban infringes upon constitutional rights to freedom of expression and access to information. The organization emphasizes that such actions by the NBC contravene the Nigerian Constitution and international human rights treaties to which Nigeria is a signatory.
This development follows a recent Federal High Court ruling in Lagos, which restrained the NBC from imposing fines or sanctions on broadcast stations without judicial authorization. The court declared that the NBC lacks the legal authority to unilaterally penalize media outlets, reinforcing the importance of due process and judicial oversight in matters concerning media regulation.
SERAP's deputy director, Kolawole Oluwadare, stated, "We urge the NBC to demonstrate its commitment to the rule of law by immediately obeying and respecting the judgment of the Court."
The organization also calls upon President Bola Tinubu to direct relevant government bodies to uphold media freedom and ensure that regulatory actions do not suppress legitimate expressions of dissent.
As the 48-hour deadline approaches, stakeholders await the government's response to SERAP's demands, which underscore the ongoing discourse on media freedom and the role of regulatory bodies in Nigeria's democratic landscape.
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