NBC Declares Olamide’s ‘Science Student’ “Unfit for Broadcast”

In a move that isn’t exactly unexpected – considering the recent controversy surrounding the song – the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has issued a Not-To-Be-Broadcast (NTTB) warning against Olamide’s latest single, ‘Science Student’.

Hajia Maimuna Jihada, the Head of Public Affairs for the commission, while confirming the news stated that the song was not banned per se, making it clear that the NBC does not ban songs. She however explained that ‘Science Student’ was prohibited from being played on local stations for public consumption.

“NBC does not ban music. Our mandate is on what goes on Radio and TV. Olamide’s Science Student has been declared ‘Unfit for broadcast’”

Explaining that the prohibition against ‘Science Student’ was because the song subtly promotes illegal drugs, Hajia Maimuna further stated that stern warnings had been issued to all broadcasting houses in Nigeria concerning the prohibition, and that failure to comply would result in sanctions.

“We have communicated all our licensees for compliance or they will face sanctions.”

It would be recalled that, ever since the release of ‘Science Student’ by Olamide earlier this month, there have been complaints by some members of the public who have vehemently expressed displeasure at the song’s lyrical content.

Although Olamide’s response, asserting that the song actually preached against substance abuse, was timely, it was apparently not sufficient to stop the NBC from prohibiting its airplay.

Do you think this move by the NBC was necessary? Will the fact that ‘Science Student’ isn’t being played on radio make any real difference with the youth? Feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments section below.