In a video circulating on social media, Nigerian musician African China has lent his voice to the growing dissent against the country’s economic struggles.
The Ajegunle-born artist participated in the ongoing 30 Days Rant Challenge alongside his children, who passionately sang his newly released single, ‘Photocopy.’ The song, which directly addresses the worsening economic crisis, paints a bleak picture of Nigeria’s current state.
African China’s decision to involve his children in the video underscores how deeply the crisis affects families across the nation. “We cannot keep quiet while our children suffer,” he declared. “The future they deserve is slipping through their fingers. This is our reality!”
Titled ‘Photocopy,’ the song does not hold back in its criticism of Nigeria’s government and political class, whom it accuses of mismanaging the country to a catastrophic degree. African China, known for his socially conscious music, calls out the government’s failure to prioritize the welfare of its citizens.
“Everything na photocopy,” he sings in the chorus, suggesting that despite different administrations, the same cycle of corruption and suffering continues. “Dem promise us better life, but see as e be!” he laments in one of the verses, reflecting the disillusionment felt by many Nigerians who had hoped for economic relief but have instead experienced harsher living conditions.
The song’s production carries the signature Galala sound that African China has long championed—a style that has historically been the voice of the streets. In the accompanying music video, the artist dons a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) uniform, a powerful symbol of solidarity with Ushie Rita Uguamaye, an NYSC member who faced backlash after openly criticizing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Uguamaye’s condemnation of the administration sparked outrage from the NYSC management, but it also ignited a wave of support from Nigerians, who saw her as a courageous truth-teller. “She spoke the truth and paid the price,” African China stated in an Instagram post. “We stand with her because her struggle is our struggle.”
The 30 Days Rant Challenge, which Uguamaye’s ordeal helped popularize, has grown into a nationwide protest where citizens take to social media daily to document their financial struggles and frustrations. The campaign has gained traction amidst skyrocketing inflation, unemployment, and the deteriorating quality of life many Nigerians now face.
What began as individual complaints has morphed into a collective cry for change, drawing support from public figures and activists. “We have suffered enough,” a participant in the challenge posted. “This government needs to hear us loud and clear!” African China’s involvement further amplifies the message, using his artistry to channel public outrage into a resounding anthem.
This is not the first time African China has used his music as a tool for activism. His classic hit ‘Mr. President’ remains one of the most impactful political songs in Nigeria’s modern history, highlighting issues of corruption, poverty, and neglect.
With ‘Photocopy,’ he continues his legacy of challenging the government and holding leaders accountable. “Music is my weapon,” he once said in an interview. “I use it to fight for my people because if we don’t speak, who will?” As the 30 Days Rant Challenge gains momentum, African China’s latest release serves as both a protest song and a reminder that the voices of the people will not be silenced.
