Afrobeat music icon, Femi Kuti, has called for an end to the ongoing feud between his brother Seun and Afrobeat star, Wizkid, insisting that legendary musician Fela Anikulapo-Kuti should be placed in a category of his own and respected as Nigeria’s cultural and artistic “father.”
Speaking in an interview on Arise TV, Femi emphasised Fela’s unparalleled status: “I don’t see Fela as just a musician; he is our father. I believe even young artists respect him deeply. This is not an issue that should have been raised at all, because Fela is the template for so many things in Nigeria—musically, artistically, culturally.”
Femi deliberately avoided taking sides in the dispute, which erupted after Seun criticised Wizkid fans for comparing the global Afrobeats star to Fela, prompting Wizkid to respond with strong language reportedly claiming superiority over Seun’s father.
“Seun is my brother, and Wizkid is like a son to me. I only wish the issue had not arisen at all. Hopefully, everyone will calm down very soon,” Femi said.
Instead, the veteran musician redirected attention to pressing national challenges.
He highlighted Nigeria’s increased Grammy participation as a positive development for the country and the African music industry, but warned against being distracted from deeper problems.
“Tribalism is a major problem in Nigeria today. Terrorism is another. These are the real issues young people, myself included, should focuse on. How do we make Nigeria safe? How do we rebuild the nation?” He asked.
Femi reflected on Fela’s foresight, noting that the Afrobeat pioneer warned about corruption destroying Nigeria as far back as the 1970s when public services like free healthcare still functioned.
“Fela has been gone for 29 years, yet we are still discussing the same problems. It is sad.”
With over 40 years in the music industry and the majority of his songs addressing political themes, Femi expressed frustration at the persistence of poverty, kidnapping, and terrorism despite decades of activism through music.
“Young people must take the baton, demand good governance, and insist on accountability. Otherwise, we are headed for serious trouble,” he said.