Media Talk Africa: Latest Headlines in Politics, Business, Sports, and More

Nigeria is navigating a perilous period in its history, according to renowned rapper Tobechukwu Melvin Ejiofor, also known as Illbliss. In a recent appearance on the Real Shareholders podcast, Illbliss voiced his concerns about the escalating insecurity, economic hardship, rampant corruption, and the government’s reliance on propaganda machinery. These issues, he believes, have led the country down a treacherous path.

Illbliss shared a personal experience that highlights the government’s efforts to suppress criticism. His song “Country,” released in 2020, was taken off the radio due to its critical stance towards the government. This was not an isolated incident, as he had previously released other conscious songs like “A Different Kind Of War” and “National Cake,” which also faced similar challenges. On-air personalities (OAPs) often expressed reluctance to play such songs, citing the risk of fines as a deterrent.

The rapper also lamented the government’s adoption of digital propaganda tools to disseminate falsehoods and stifle criticism. He noted that every time he releases a record, he is met with a slew of tweets questioning his motives and defending the government’s actions. Illblissbelieves that this is an artificial pushback, possibly a digital response orchestrated by the government. He emphasized that propaganda is no longer limited to traditional media, as propagandists can now utilize podcasts and other online platforms to promote a positive image of the government, regardless of the reality on the ground.

Illbliss’s concerns are echoed in his observation that people from his generation are now proudly defending the government’s actions, claiming that it has created jobs. This, he argues, is a testament to the government’s advanced propaganda machinery, which has successfully convinced some citizens to ignore the glaring issues plaguing the country. The rapper wonders whether the government has begun to fund theories of distraction or if it has simply become more adept at manipulating public opinion.

Ultimately, Illbliss’s words serve as a warning: Nigeria is indeed in a very dangerous part of its history, where the government is effectively countering criticism and manipulating public discourse. As the country continues to grapple with insecurity, economic hardship, and corruption, it is essential for citizens to remain vigilant and critical of the information they consume. By doing so, they can ensure that the government is held accountable for its actions and that the country can begin to navigate a more positive trajectory.