Rarara: The Evolution of Hausa Invective Poetry

Dauda Adamu Abdullahi Kahutu, known as Rarara, is a master of Hausa invective oral poetry, having established his career since 2010 by creating songs that insult political opponents for monetary rewards. His work has included 39 songs filled with invective barbs, targeting figures such as former Governor Ibrahim Shekarau and Deputy Governor Abdullahi T.

Gwarzo. Rarara's early non-invective song was “Saraki Sai Allah,” honoring Shekarau's turbanning in 2010.

However, after Shekarau did not support Rarara's preferred successor in 2011, Rarara turned to invective, particularly against Shekarau. His songs, including “Malam Ya Yi Rawa Da Alkyabba” (2014) and “Tangal-Tangal” (2023), illustrate his ability to shift loyalties based on financial incentives.

Initially, he rose to fame by praising Muhammadu Buhari but has since adapted to the new political climate under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, surprising many with his changing allegiances.