Why Olamide’s hit song, ‘Science Student’ was banned

The Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation, NBC, has finally declared Olamide’s ‘Science Student’ unfit for broadcast.

Recall that since the song was released, online and offline commentators have been debating on its s content, with some saying that the Nigerian rapper is promoting the use of addictive substances, while others 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, and Olamide’s ‘Science Student’ song has been declared ‘Unfit for Broadcast’.”

Recall that it is not the first time a song by Olamide is attracting the attention of Nigerian authorities. In August last year, his hit song ‘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, he said “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”. Also, note that since the release of “Science Student” song, there has been massive support from his fans. But shortly after the song began to attract scrutiny, Olamide wrote on his Instagram page: “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.”