“Tinubu is the worst president ever” — Eedris Abdulkareem

Veteran Nigerian rapper, Eedris Abdulkareem has stirred public discourse after branding President Bola Tinubu as the “worst president ever” in Nigeria’s history.

The bold remark was made during an interview with News Central TV on Wednesday, in response to the controversy surrounding his recently banned protest song, Tell Your Papa.

The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) had earlier banned the politically charged track, sparking debates over censorship and freedom of expression in Nigeria.

During the interview, Abdulkareem argued that both Nigerian and international laws uphold his right to speak out.

“The 1999 Nigerian Constitution guarantees freedom of expression in Section 39… Article 19 of both the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) acknowledges the importance of freedom of expression for democracy, human rights, and the rule of law,” he said.

The Jagajaga crooner didn’t mince words when addressing recent comments made by Seyi Tinubu, son of the president, who described his father as the greatest president Nigeria has ever had.

“Seyi, I differ. Your dad is not the greatest president, as far as Nigeria is concerned right now,” Abdulkareem said.

“You look more perfect in silence than when you speak. I would advise you to hand over the microphone to the MC next time. Tinubu may be the best father to you, but he is the worst president ever in Nigeria,” he added.

The rapper emphasised that his criticism was not personal but rooted in the harsh realities Nigerians face—worsening hunger, joblessness, and insecurity.

Now 51, Eedris Abdulkareem has long been known for his activism through music. His 2004 hit Jaga Jaga was a cultural landmark in political criticism, and Tell Your Papa continues that legacy, challenging the current administration’s handling of national issues.

"Tinubu is the best father to Seyi Tinubu, but he is the worst president ever in Nigeria."@EedrisOriginal says President Tinubu is a good father to Seyi Tinubu, but he has failed Nigerians as a leader. pic.twitter.com/RqJIMsu2Tf

— News Central TV (@NewsCentralTV) April 16, 2025

Despite the NBC ban, the song has gone viral online, with many Nigerians praising Abdulkareem for voicing what they believe are the frustrations of the common man.