Nigerian songs that got banned by NBC.
Think again if you thought Nigerian music was all about catchy beats and groovy tunes. Over the years, some of our favourite tracks by well-known Nigerian artists have landed in hot water with the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC). These songs have faced the music—pun intended—for their controversial content, leaving us mixed feelings about their bans. Let’s dive into the underground world of Nigerian music and check out these six tunes that got NBC’s attention for all the wrong reasons.
1. “Fall” by Davido: The Unseen Controversy
First up on our list is “Fall” by the only Afrobeats sensation, Davido. Did you know that this chart-topper was slapped with an NBC ban? It’s true! “Fall” is one of Davido’s biggest hits and one of the most popular Nigerian songs. The catchy melody and Davido’s star power might have drawn you in, but NBC had other concerns about this track. What exactly got it banned? The lyrics or the music video? It’s still a mystery.
2. “Wo” by Olamide: A Firestarter
Olamide’s 2017 hit single, “Wo,” is another victim of the NBC’s ban hammer. This track faced the heat right from its release, with NBC citing a breach of their rules and regulations. Olamide, the popular Nigerian rapper behind the song, claimed he never meant to offend anyone. But NBC stood firm, and although they didn’t explain the ban, it might have something to do with the Federal Ministry of Health’s response to the song’s music video.
3. “This Is Nigeria” by Falz: Too Hot to Handle
In 2018, Falz, the esteemed Nigerian rapper and singer, dropped “This Is Nigeria,” a track that raised eyebrows and got NBC’s attention. The commission labelled part of the song as “vulgar” and deemed the composition “unfit for radio.” Falz used this iconic track to shed light on societal issues, from poor leadership to healthcare woes. But was it his frank use of words and visuals triggered NBC’s ban, or did he miss the rulebook altogether?
4. “Iskaba” by Wande Coal: A Catchy Conundrum
Wande Coal’s “Iskaba” found itself on the NBC’s blacklist when it was released in 2016. This Nigerian singer and songwriter teamed up with DJ Tunez for this infectious track. Despite the ban, “Iskaba” gained massive exposure online, with streams, downloads, and views pouring in. The offending phrase that led to the ban? “Girl you dey make me kolo, shaking the ass like kolo.” NBC deemed it “vulgar” and a violation of their rules.
5. “Thunder Fire You” by Ric Hassani: Shocking Sensibility
Ric Hassani’s 2021 hit, “Thunder Fire You,” faced NBC’s wrath soon after it gained popularity. The song revolves around heartbreak and includes the widely used Nigerian slang phrase “Thunder Fire You.” Fans weren’t pleased with the ban, and social media erupted outrageously. Nigerians questioned why this song faced the axe while more controversial tracks like “Cash App” got a free pass.
6. “Living Things” by 9ice: Banter with NBC
“Living Things” by 9ice got caught in the crossfire when the Ministry of Health issued a public warning about Olamide’s “Wo.” Although “Living Things” had been playing on many Nigerian radio stations, it was eventually banned, likely due to the ministry’s involvement. In an interview, 9ice humorously declared that he would continue to make songs that NBC would ban. Talk about musical rebellion!
There you have it, folks—a glimpse into the world of Nigerian music and the controversies that sometimes accompany it. While these songs may have faced NBC’s bans, they continue to resonate with fans and showcase the vibrant creativity of Nigerian artists. Music knows no boundaries; even bans can’t stop these tunes from making waves.
