NBC Labels Davido’s Song, 18 Others NTBB

Uzo Chikere

The Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation, the government parastatal responsible for regulating the broadcast industry here has banned no less than 18 popular songs from being aired on broadcast media in the country. They were labeled NTBB (Not To Be Broadcast) what the regulating body considered their bawdy lyrics and indecent exposure as reflected in their visual presentation on air.

Songs listed as banned include Wizkid‘s In My Bed, Fans Mi by Davido (featuring American rapper Meek Mill), Olamide‘s Shakiti Bobo and Iyanya‘s collaboration with Don Jazzy, Gift. Others are Tony Montana by Naeto C featuring D’banj, Oyari (Dr Sid and Tiwa Savage), Gbese (Lil Kesh), Ibadi (May D), Tesojue (Reminisce), Yayo (Phyno), Lomo (Jhybo) and Pre‘s The Girl.

NBC also banned three foreign songs: Nicki Minaj‘s Anaconda, Post To Be by Omarion featuring Chris Brown and Jhene Aiko and Ace Hood’s collaboration with Rick Ross titled Bugatti. Most of the banned songs are already big hits, and will continue to get played in night clubs and on websites across the world. They will also remain on cable platforms like Hip TV, MTV Base and Soundcity.

NBC memos to the station heads say the labeling reflects how the commission’s officers categorise the music. Free-to-air channels are not allowed to broadcast music containing vulgar lyrics, obscene scenes and violence. Insiders of NBC cited Davido’s Fans Mi as promoting ostentatious lifestyle, drug trafficking and indecent exposure. The Nigerian Drug law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) had also expressed concerns about the video.

Established on August 24, 1992, the NBC derives its powers from Act 38 of 1992 and Act 55 of 1999 as amended.