Olamide’s Science Student banned from Nigerian radio

Since the song’s release, online and offline commentators have debated thew song's content, with some saying the Nigerian rapper is promoting the use of addictive substances. Others have said it merely presents the reality of drug use among Nigerian youths.

The NBC has now waded into the debate by slamming the NTBB (Not to be Broadcast) tag on the song. Hajia Maimuna Jihada, the body’s head of public affairs, said the song's lyrics, which are in Yoruba, favour drug use.

Jihada also explained her organisation’s jurisdiction. “NBC does not ban music," she said. "Our mandate is on what goes on radio and TV. Olamide’s ‘Science Student’ has been declared ‘Unfit for Broadcast’.”

It is not the first time a song by Olamide has courted the attention of Nigerian authorities. In August last year, his hit ‘Wo!’ was said to contain “dangerous public health content” by the Twitter handle of Nigeria’s Ministry of Health.

At the time Olamide responded with a tweet. “No intentions of promoting tobacco to get people killed, I love my people, I love my country, one love, one Nigeria.” The Ministry of Health then announced that Olamide had “committed to making things right”.

The new accusation has come less than six months since that commitment. He has again responded with a denial.

“Since the release of #ScienceStudent, the support has been massive,” he wrote on Instagram shortly after the song began to attract scrutiny. “As you are all sharing, dancing, singing along to this relatable music of mine, I want you all to take some time to reflect on the subject, say no to drug abuse.

“Don’t abuse alcohol. Stop mixing what you don’t know about. Live responsibly and drink responsibly. Don’t aspire the ‘highness state’ but a state of purpose fulfilment and passion discovery. Together let’s put an end to drug abuse and save as many lives as possible. The video will be out soon and I can’t wait for you all to see it.”

The NBC’s decision means fans waiting to see the ‘Science Student’ video will have to use the Internet or non-terrestrial TV.