Supporters of Senate President Deputy, Senator Barau Jibrin, brought traffic to a brief standstill yesterday as they marched through major streets with a large printed photo of popular Hausa musician Dauda Kahutu, known as Rarara.
The twist was a bold red ❌ drawn across his face and the word “CANCELLED” written underneath.
The crowd, mostly young men wearing Barau-branded caps and T-shirts, chanted slogans praising the senator’s leadership while laughing and joking with onlookers. Videos from the march quickly spread online, with many people reacting with the same laughing emojis the protesters used.
According to some of the marchers, the action was a response to Rarara’s recent political comments and endorsements. They said the singer has not represented the interests of their base and that it was time to publicly distance themselves from him.
“We respect music, but we also respect loyalty,” one supporter told reporters. “If you are not with us, then we are not with you. That is why we cancelled him today.” The group insisted the protest was peaceful and meant to send a message, not to incite trouble.
Dauda Rarara has been a prominent voice in northern Nigerian politics for years, often performing at rallies and releasing songs in support of different candidates. His music has huge followings, which is why the image of his poster being “cancelled” drew so much attention online.
Political observers in Abuja say the street display reflects growing tensions within political camps ahead of upcoming engagements. They note that cultural figures like Rarara often become targets when alliances shift, because their songs can sway public opinion quickly.
Social media was divided. Some users praised the supporters for being creative and humorous with their protest. Others criticized it as disrespectful to an artist who has entertained millions. The laughing emojis and memes kept the topic trending for hours.
As of press time, neither Senator Barau nor Dauda Rarara has issued an official statement about the march. But with the photos still circulating and people still laughing and debating, it is clear the “cancelled” poster has already made its point on the streets and online.
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