Famous Nigerian rapper Tobechukwu Melvin Ejiofor, popularly known as Illbliss, has described Nigeria as being in “a very dangerous part” of its history. Speaking on the Real Shareholders podcast, Illbliss expressed deep concern over escalating insecurity, economic hardship, widespread corruption, and the government’s use of propaganda to suppress dissent.
Illbliss revealed that his conscious song titled “Country,” released in 2020 and critical of the government, was removed from radio airplay. He noted that other socially aware tracks such as “A Different Kind of War” and “National Cake” also faced similar censorship, with radio presenters fearing fines for playing them.
He lamented the rise of digital propaganda tools employed by the government to counter criticism and spread misinformation. Illbliss pointed out how social media, once seen as a platform for free expression, is now also a battleground where the government matches the energy of critics by funding distraction theories and promoting false narratives. He observed that some from his generation publicly defend the government’s record, claiming job creation despite prevailing challenges.
“That is where we are. We are in a very dangerous part of our history where the government is matching our energy,” Illbliss said, highlighting the sophisticated nature of state-sponsored propaganda in the digital age and the complex environment Nigerians face today.
His remarks underscore growing frustrations among Nigerians about insecurity and governance, as well as concerns over shrinking space for free speech amid increasing government control of information.
