Afrobeat musician Femi Kuti has criticized the ongoing comparisons between contemporary music star Wizkid and his late father, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, calling the debate an unnecessary distraction from Nigeria’s urgent socio-political problems.
Speaking during an interview on Arise Television, the eldest son of the Afrobeat pioneer expressed disappointment over the controversy, which gained traction following a statement allegedly made by Wizkid during a public exchange with Seun Kuti.
“I big pass your papa.”
Femi Kuti firmly refused to take sides in the rivalry.
“I wish it never came up. I’m not participating in it.”
He stressed that his father’s legacy stands in a class of its own.
“Fela is the template musically and artistically in Nigeria. He should be put in a sector of his own and respected.”
Kuti lamented that public attention has shifted toward celebrity comparisons while Nigeria’s deeper challenges remain unresolved.
“The government doesn’t even know how to move people positively forward. It’s shameful.”
He added that the problems Fela sang about decades ago are still present today.
“For 29 years, he has been gone, yet we are still discussing the same issues.”
While acknowledging the global success of Afrobeat, Femi Kuti urged Nigerians to channel that recognition into national development.
“This recognition is good for Nigeria and Africa. We should use it to build the country, build our music industry, and come together.”
The debate comes amid news that Fela Kuti will receive a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Grammys, further sparking conversations about his lasting influence on today’s Nigerian artists.
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