Nigerian rapper and songwriter Erigga has reflected on the strict parenting style experienced by many people of his generation, saying he now believes that the discipline imposed by their parents may have protected them from many dangers.
The rapper shared the thought while comparing the experiences of children growing up in previous generations with the realities faced by young people today.
“I used to think that our parents were so strict, but watching these kids today, I think our parents saved our lives,” Erigga said.
His comment has sparked conversations about parenting, discipline and the changing social environment in which children are being raised.
For many Nigerians who grew up under strict parental supervision, discipline often involved firm rules concerning where children could go, the people they could associate with, the time they were expected to return home and how they were expected to behave towards adults.
Children were also commonly expected to respect authority, obey household rules and accept correction from parents and older members of the community.
Erigga’s reflection suggests that some of the restrictions that appeared excessive to children at the time may have served as protective measures, particularly in an environment where parents had greater control over their children's movements and social interactions.
The rapper’s observation also comes amid growing concerns among parents and educators about the challenges confronting children in the digital age.
Unlike previous generations, children today have access to smartphones, social media platforms, online entertainment and a vast amount of information from around the world, often with limited parental oversight.
These technologies provide significant educational and social opportunities but can also expose children to inappropriate content, online exploitation, cyberbullying, unhealthy influences and other risks.
The changing environment has therefore made parenting more complex, requiring parents to balance discipline with communication, trust and digital awareness.
Erigga’s statement has resonated with people who believe that traditional parenting practices, including strict boundaries and close supervision, helped keep young people away from potentially harmful influences.
However, the debate over strict parenting also raises questions about the appropriate balance between discipline and a child's need for independence.
While clear boundaries can help children develop responsibility and understand consequences, effective parenting also requires parents to listen to their children, explain expectations and create an environment where genuine concerns can be discussed openly.
The rapper's comments have consequently prompted renewed discussion about whether some of the discipline of previous generations should be preserved and adapted to the realities of modern society.
At the centre of the conversation is the role parents play in protecting children while preparing them to make responsible decisions independently.
Erigga’s reflection ultimately highlights how perspectives can change with age. What may have felt like excessive strictness during childhood can sometimes be understood differently when viewed from the position of an adult observing the challenges faced by today's children.
His conclusion was simple: the strictness many once complained about may have been one of the things that helped keep them safe.
“Our parents saved our lives,” he said.
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