In a surprising turn of events, a popular saying propagated by Nigerian music sensation Damini Ogulu, known as Burna Boy, has found its way into an unexpected setting—the examination halls of the University of Uyo in Akwa Ibom State. The saying, “No evidence, you go explain tire,” has become a part of the academic discourse as it appeared as a question in an exam administered to 400-level students enrolled in the Department of History and International Studies.
The intriguing question, which was shared on the Facebook platform “Yorochi Tv” by user Effiong G Victor, posed a challenge to students by asking them to dissect the inherent nature of history through the lens of Burna Boy’s popular catchphrase. The question itself inquired, “‘How is the nature of history demonstrated in the trending cliché of Nigeria’s music icon, Burna Boy, that: ‘no evidence, you go explain tire’?”
The origins of Burna Boy’s catchy saying can be traced back to an Instagram Live session in which the artist interacted with his fans. During this exchange, Burna Boy articulated, “If you no make am, no evidence say you try your best. You go dey explain tire. You go explain explain explain because no evidence says you try your best if you no make am.”
This unexpected incorporation of modern pop culture into an academic context highlights the evolving nature of education and the ways in which contemporary societal trends can intersect with traditional disciplines.
The utilisation of a pop culture catchphrase in an examination question not only showcases the influence of popular figures like Burna Boy but also underscores the university’s innovative approach to engaging students in critical thinking and analysis.
As students grapple with the task of deciphering the historical implications of Burna Boy’s saying, it becomes evident that this episode serves as a testament to the power of language, culture, and music to bridge the gap between seemingly disparate fields of study. This unique occurrence further underscores the dynamic nature of education in an era where the lines between entertainment, academia, and everyday life continue to blur.
