Renowned Nigerian lyricist, Folarin Falana, who is better known by his stage name Falz, has elucidated why he referred to the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, in his new song. Falz explained that his song titled “Yakubu” is based on his personal truth about the recent elections. He lamented the violent activities and the manipulation of the electoral process that characterized the election, describing INEC’s performance as a colossal failure. He also clarified that the song only contains facts and that he and Vector, another Nigerian rapper, are merely relaying the events as they occurred.
Election violence and manipulation have been persistent challenges in Nigeria, and the 2019 election was no exception. There were reports of violence, vote-buying, ballot box snatching, and other forms of electoral malpractice. Falz, who is renowned for his socially conscious music, decided to use his platform to raise awareness about these issues.
In his latest track “Yakubu,” Falz called out Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, the Chairman of INEC, for his alleged role in the electoral malpractice. The song has stirred up a lot of buzz on social media, with many Nigerians commending Falz for his outspokenness against the injustices in the electoral system.
The song starts with Falz asking Mr. Yakubu, the Chairman, “are you planning to do a re-run, sir?” He goes further to say, “I am not a politician, I am a citizen, but I will not remain silent if our democracy is threatened.” The song also features a verse from Vector, another Nigerian rapper, who also condemns the electoral malpractice in the country.
Falz’s bold move of calling out INEC and Prof. Yakubu in his song has earned him respect from Nigerians. His lyrics have pointed out the flaws in the electoral system and the urgent need for reform. It is not the first time Falz has used his music to address social issues. He has previously spoken out against police brutality, corruption, and other societal ills in the country.
Music has been a powerful tool for social and political change throughout history. Legendary musicians such as Bob Dylan and Fela Kuti have used their music to speak out against injustice and inequality. Falz is now following in their footsteps and using his music to initiate important discussions about the state of Nigeria’s electoral system.
Falz’s decision to call out INEC and Prof. Yakubu in his song “Yakubu” has been a courageous move that has earned him respect from Nigerians. His lyrics have highlighted the inadequacies of the electoral system and the need for urgent reform. Falz has demonstrated that music can be a potent instrument for social and political transformation, and Nigerian artists have a responsibility to use their platform to speak out against injustice and inequality
