Nigerian music icon Eedris Abdulkareem has revealed he recently turned down an alleged underground offer of ₦200 million, claiming it was a ploy by political figures to buy his silence and possibly manipulate him into becoming a tool in their political games.
The outspoken musician, known for his fearless activism and criticism of government excesses, made the shocking revelation during a video rant that quickly circulated on social media. He accused unnamed political actors of attempting to bribe him following his recent outspoken video that addressed national issues and challenged political leaders.
In his usual fiery tone, Eedris narrated how he received a strange call from a man claiming to be a politician. According to the artist, the caller identified himself as an “Honourable” and said he had attended a meeting involving Seyi, the son of President Tinubu, and unnamed government officials.
“I got a call from one criminal who says his name is one Honourable, which I can’t even remember right now. He said I was in a meeting yesterday with Seyi and some government officials. They are trying to call you and bribe you. Don’t listen to them. We are going to be sponsoring you underground,” Eedris recounted.
Surprised and suspicious of the offer, Eedris said he immediately asked the caller who had told him that he needed anything. He then declared that he wasn’t interested in any support, hidden sponsorship, or political alignment.
“Immediately I knew he was sent. I told him I was not interested. And he replied, ‘We will give you ₦200 million and sponsor you underground,’” he added.
Eedris said he saw through the tactic instantly and realized the caller was trying to entrap him or influence his activism. He boldly turned down the offer and told the caller to “go sit down somewhere.”
“The video that I did, were you the one that sponsored it?” he fired back. “Thieves! So it’s me that you want to use for caricature? I don prepared for una teetee.”
According to him, the incident only confirmed his long-held belief that many in the political class are out to manipulate voices of dissent or buy their silence through hidden deals.
Eedris Abdulkareem is no stranger to political controversy. Over the years, he has remained one of Nigeria’s most outspoken musicians, often using his platform to criticize corruption, injustice, and the failure of government.
His early 2000s hit “Jaga Jaga” was banned on Nigerian airwaves during the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo for being too critical of the state of the nation. Since then, Eedris has built a reputation for fearlessly confronting national issues through his music and public statements.
More recently, he has used social media to challenge government officials on a variety of pressing issues such as the cost of living, insecurity, youth unemployment, and the state of the economy.
Following the revelation, Nigerians took to social media to express mixed reactions. Some hailed Eedris for maintaining his integrity and resisting what they described as an attempt to “buy conscience.” Others called for a proper investigation into the identities of those involved in the bribery attempt.
“This is the kind of patriotism we need in Nigeria. People who cannot be bought or silenced,” one Twitter user wrote.
Another user added:
“If they are offering ₦200 million, it shows how desperate they are. Kudos to Eedris for standing strong.”
However, a few users questioned the timing of the claim, asking for more evidence or clarity on who the caller was and what exactly was discussed.
The music industry in Nigeria has seen increasing political engagement in recent years, with many artists using their platforms to mobilize young people and speak up on social issues. This has made artists like Eedris, Falz, and others targets for both praise and political pressure.
Eedris’ latest claims also highlight a growing concern about how the political class allegedly tries to infiltrate public spaces, especially online and in entertainment, by offering under-the-table deals to influencers, celebrities, and activists.
While it remains unclear who exactly was behind the alleged bribe attempt, Eedris has made it clear that he will not be silenced or controlled.
“I know your game. I’ve been watching you. You can’t buy me. My voice is not for sale,” he stated in the video.
Eedris Abdulkareem’s latest revelation comes at a time when Nigeria is going through serious economic challenges and political unrest. With youth activism rising, the battle over narrative, influence, and public trust continues to grow, and voices like Eedris’ remain powerful symbols in the fight for transparency and accountability.
While the full details of the alleged bribery remain unverified, one thing is clear — Eedris Abdulkareem is not backing down.
