The legendary song “Kain Dey,” which was published in 1999 by Baba Fryo, real name Friday Igweh, became a potent national anthem for Nigeria. The abrupt jump in petrol costs, which had risen to 20 Naira per liter, had left many Nigerians unhappy and frustrated, as the song eloquently depicted.
The song emphasized the economic troubles and the alleged brutality of government policies that heavily burdened common citizens during a period when the nation was moving from military rule to a civilian government. Baba Fryo’s music functioned as a vehicle for social commentary, highlighting wider problems with accountability and governance in Nigeria by mirroring the hardships of the common people.
“Kain Dey” is still regarded as an important part of cultural history because it serves as a reminder of the ability of music to subvert authority and spur social change.