Eedris Turayo Abdulkareem Ajenifuja, known professionally as Eedris Abdulkareem, is a renowned Nigerian hip hop, R&B, and Afrobeat artiste, songwriter, and singer.
He has been a pivotal figure in the Nigerian music industry, especially recognized for his role as the lead rapper of the now-defunct hip hop group, The Remedies.
He is celebrated as one of the pioneers of Nigerian hip hop and is considered one of the most influential Nigerian rappers of all time.
Early Life
Eedris Abdulkareem was born on December 24, 1974, into a polygamous family in Kano, Nigeria.
His father hailed from Ilesha in Osun State, while his mother was from Ogun State, both located in southwestern Nigeria.
Despite his southwestern roots, Abdulkareem adopted Kano State as his state of origin. He experienced significant loss early in life, with his father passing away when he was just two years old, followed by the deaths of eight of his elder siblings over time.
Education
Eedris Abdulkareem’s educational journey saw him attending Army Day Secondary School in Kano.
His passion for music was evident during his school years, where he began honing his rap skills, laying the foundation for his future career in music.
Career
Eedris Abdulkareem’s music career took off in the 1990s when he joined The Remedies, alongside Tony Tetuila and Eddy Montana.
The group gained widespread popularity before eventually disbanding, leading each member to pursue solo careers.
Abdulkareem’s solo debut album, “Pass,” released in 2002, received critical acclaim. His subsequent album, “Mr Lecturer,” addressed the issue of sexual harassment in universities, further cementing his reputation as a socially conscious artiste.
In 2004, Abdulkareem released “Jaga Jaga,” a highly controversial album that criticized corruption and societal ills in Nigeria.
Despite being banned on radio and television by then-President Olusegun Obasanjo, the song remained popular in nightclubs and resonated with the public.
Abdulkareem continued to produce music that tackled political and social issues, earning him a reputation as a musical activist.
Personal Life
In 2004, Abdulkareem married Yetunde, and the couple has these children together: Tolani, Titomi, and Abdulrahim.
His family life has remained relatively private, with Abdulkareem often focusing on his music and activism.
Achievements
Eedris Abdulkareem has been recognized for his contributions to the Nigerian music industry and his efforts to address social issues through his music.
In 2000, he was selected to carry the Olympic torch in Nigeria, a proof of his influence and popularity.
He is often compared to Fela Kuti for his dedication to using music as a tool for social change.
Discography
Eedris Abdulkareem has an extensive discography that includes the following studio albums:
- Pass (2002)
- Mr. Lecturer (2002)
- Jaga Jaga (2004)
- Letter to Mr. President (2005)
- King Is Back (2007)
- Unfinished Business (2010)
- Nothing But The Truth (2020)
Notable singles include:
- “Wonkere” ft. Fatai Rolling Dollar (2011)
- “Jaga Jaga Part 2” (2012)
- “Sekere” ft. Vector (2013)
- “Fela” ft. Femi Kuti (2013)
- “I Go Whoze You” ft. Vtek (2013)
- “Trouble Dey Sleep” ft. Konga (2016)
- “Jaga Jaga Reloaded” (2021)
- “Oti Get E” (2021)
- “Emi Lokan” (2024)
Awards and Nominations
Abdulkareem’s impact on the Nigerian music scene was formally recognized in 2016 when he received a Special Recognition Award at the City People Entertainment Awards for his significant contributions to the growth of the entertainment industry in Nigeria.
Social Media Handles
Eedris Abdulkareem maintains an active presence on social media, engaging with fans and promoting his music and activism:
– Instagram: @abdulkareemeedris (https://www.instagram.com/abdulkareemeedris)
– Twitter: @EedrisOriginal (https://twitter.com/EedrisOriginal)
Controversy
Eedris Abdulkareem has been no stranger to controversy. In June 2024, he released the song “Emi Lokan,” where he criticized both the current administration of Bola Tinubu and the past administration of Muhammadu Buhari.
He also took aim at popular religious leader E.A. Adeboye for perceived hypocrisy in not speaking out against societal issues. This song stirred significant debate and highlighted Abdulkareem’s commitment to using his platform for social commentary.
A notable earlier controversy occurred in 2004 when Abdulkareem was involved in an altercation with American rapper, 50 Cent, at Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos.
The incident, which resulted in one of Abdulkareem’s associates being hospitalized, garnered international attention and further cemented his reputation as a contentious figure in the music industry.
Net Worth
Eedris Abdulkareem’s net worth is estimated to be around $1 million. His wealth primarily stems from his successful music career, album sales, performances, and his record label, Lakreem Music, which he launched in 2005.
