Music as a tool for protesting
Tensions have been very high. It’s been a very emotional week, and at the forefront is anger! Nigerians are fed up! They’ve been protesting over the last week and it doesn’t seem like they’ll be losing steam anytime soon.
And they’re not alone. Nigerians and black people all over the world are joining in; London, Dublin, Los Angeles, New York, Calgary and several other cities. People have been pouring out in their thousands saying #TimesUp to the Nigerian Government.
Amidst the myriad of information, pictures and videos that have been shared this week was one that stood out to us. A video of hundreds of people singing Davido’s Fem (‘Shut Up’) in unity. It was both hilarious and heartwarming.
Whilst ‘Fem’ is not a political song, it could not be more apt in conveying their message to the Nigerian Government and officials.
Within the larger genre of socio-political music, the music of resistance is a distinct category because of its effectiveness as a peaceful instrument of political communication.
Not only is the role of music influential, but it’s also one that cannot be silenced. Every period of social upheaval gives birth to songs of discontent and Nigeria has MANY of those.
We’ve collated 20 songs that were created as tools for resisting state and police oppression.
These songs were written to be part of this #ENDSARS movement we did not know was coming until it arrived.
They have spanned over generations of artists from Fela to Falz to Zinoleesky and we hope and pray for change so that the buck can stop here.
Listen to these songs, share them with others and continue to protest and SORO SOKÉ as peacefully as you can. You can also donate to the cause via @feminist.co who have a very detailed account of how the money is spent.
As Nigerians continue to protest nationwide against police brutality, you can help by magnifying the voices and stories that need to be heard with the hashtags #EndSars #EndSarsNow #EndSwat #5for5
Jaga Jaga – Eedris Abdul Kareem
“Jaga Jaga” caused an uproar when it was released, it spoke about the derelict state of the country. EVERYONE was singing it and Government officials, especially the then Nigerian president Olusegun Obasanjo were vehemently against it. It was eventually banned on the radio for supposedly being ‘non-gratifying’ but here it is – as relevant today as it was in 2004
Criminal in Agada – Yemi Alade
“CIA” Calls out corrupt politicians who steal Nigeria’s funds for their personal use. Criminals and politicians who hoard power making it impossible for the younger generation who have plans for a better future to help. It was recorded in one sitting without pen or paper.
Jailer – Asa
“Jailer” is a song about the Nigerian prison system and, by extension, the Police Force. It reminds people of the fallible nature of humans and that the oppressor could one day be the victim.
Collateral Damage – Burna Boy
“Collateral Damage” comments on the deep-rooted culture of political and economic corruption in Nigeria. In the song, Burna narrates the sad reality of how Nigerians are forced to remain docile while being scammed of the nation’s wealth and resources by embezzling government officials.
This is Nigeria – Falz
“This is Nigeria” is a less subtle cover of Childish Gambino’s This is America. It’s filled with parodies of real-life incidents and the worst problems facing Nigeria; from police brutality to the opioid crisis, right down to corruption. The lyrics are powerful but the visuals are even more so.
End SARS – Zinolesky
Released as recently as 2019, this song is a direct call for the government to #EndSars (the group directed to protect Nigerians from a robbery but has been directly responsible for violence and terrorism against the Nigerian populace, especially youth).
Mr President – African China
“Mr President” was an open letter to the president of Nigeria (then Olusegun Obasanjo) lamenting about the state of the country and urging the government to do better so that everyone can play their part.
Zombie – Fela
The absolute classic that is “Zombie” is loaded with political jabs. But at its core, it’s a condemnation of the Nigerian military. He compares them to Zombies who only respond to (government) orders
The song gives you a description of the day to day reality of an average Nigerian youth. They don’t know when police brutality will stop and the Nigerian Government do not care but pray you don’t run out of luck Amen.
It was recorded in 1977 and originally released on Nigerian Kalakuta label. The song still resonates in today’s life of common Nigerian. A police officer will slap your face for no reason, but you can’t talk, this is their regular trademark.
