A faction of the Pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, loyal to the late Chief Ayo Adebanjo, has criticised the Federal Government and President Bola Tinubu over the ban on Eedris Abdulkareem’s song, “Tell Your Papa.”
In a statement issued Wednesday and signed by acting Chairman Oba Oladipo Olaitan and National Publicity Secretary Justice Faloye, the group described the ban as a direct violation of free speech, a fundamental principle of democracy.
Afenifere argued that the song was not offensive, but a legitimate and creative response to comments made by Seyi Tinubu, the President’s son, regarding the country’s current state. They warned that silencing such expression reflects an autocratic approach that stifles both creativity and dissent.
“The autocratic ban signals a leadership tendency disconnected from citizens’ realities and is focused more on control than fostering freedom and innovation. This undermines democracy and discourages artistic expression,” the group said.
Beyond the music ban, Afenifere expressed grave concern over Nigeria’s rising insecurity, citing data from HumAngle’s Conflict Tracker, which reported that 1,420 Nigerians were killed and 537 kidnapped in the first three months of 2025.
The group noted recent violent attacks in Ondo, Benue, Edo, and Nasarawa states. In Ondo, bandits attacked four communities in Akure North LGA, killing 20 people and abducting nine surveyors. In Benue, armed herders ambushed and killed three members of the state’s security force, leading to protests and destruction of property.
Calling for urgent action, Afenifere demanded a ban on open grazing and the adoption of ranching to curb violent clashes.
They also renewed calls for the establishment of state police, stating that a centralised police system is inadequate for a country as large and diverse as Nigeria.
“Politics aside, all management best practices show that a single police hierarchy cannot deliver the security a nation of this size and diversity requires,” the group stated.
In conclusion, Afenifere urged President Tinubu to restructure the country toward true federalism, which they believe will promote equity, justice, peace, and national prosperity.
