Ben Akinbami Uses Music to Fight Crime in Nigeria

Ben Akinbami releases anti-crime music in Nigeria, warning youths and corrupt officials while supporting law enforcement efforts

Nigerian singer and pastor Akinbami Ebenezer, popularly known as Ben Akinbami, is breaking industry norms by using his music to discourage crime and promote respect for the law.

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Unlike many of his contemporaries who often romanticise fraud, drug abuse, and sex, Akinbami focuses on socially conscious themes that support law enforcement initiatives.

Following a recent performance at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)’s Officers Night Out, Akinbami said that music has the power to influence behaviour.

“If music could influence people into doing drugs and other vices, I believe music can influence younger generations to act better,” he said.

His latest single, Hand Go Touch You, warns of the long-term consequences of criminal lifestyles and encourages both youths and corrupt politicians to uphold the rule of law.

Akinbami, who began singing at age eight and has released two studio albums alongside an Extended Play, described the song as “timely and intentional” given the prevalence of internet fraud, embezzlement, and other criminal acts in Nigeria.

“The lyrics of the song say it all; it’s a sensitisation that no matter how smart you think you can be, EFCC will catch you,” he said.

The song’s music video honours the late EFCC Assistant Superintendent, Aminu Harisu Sahabi, who was murdered last year.

Akinbami emphasises that commercial success is secondary to impact, acknowledging that socially conscious music rarely trends but has lasting influence.

“I want people to act better and get blessed every time they get to listen to my music. I don’t want to sing songs that will trend; I want to sing songs that’ll be evergreen,” he said.

Law enforcement officials and social advocates have welcomed Akinbami’s approach, describing it as a creative complement to traditional crime-prevention campaigns.

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While music alone cannot solve systemic social issues, artists like Akinbami are helping shift public conversations in a culture where musicians wield significant influence.