Afrobeat icon, Femi Kuti, has voiced discomfort over the recurring comparisons between modern Nigerian music stars and his late father, Afrobeat pioneer, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, saying the discussion adds little value to the country’s current realities.
During a recent appearance on Arise Television, the musician distanced himself from the debate, arguing that Nigeria’s pressing political and social challenges deserve far more attention than arguments over artistic supremacy.
“I wish it never came up. I’m not participating in it..The government doesn’t even know how to move people positively forward. It’s shameful,” he said.
The conversation gained momentum after Grammy-winning singer Wizkid made remarks directed at Seun Kuti, in which he claimed to be bigger than the late Afrobeat legend, saying, “I big pass your papa.”
Around the same period, Fela received a posthumous nomination for a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, a recognition that once again placed his influence at the centre of discussions about the evolution of Afrobeat and its global reach.
Responding to the renewed attention, Femi stressed that his father’s contributions should not be measured against present-day success, describing Fela as the creative and ideological foundation of Nigeria’s music culture.
“Fela is the template musically and artistically in Nigeria. He should be put in a sector of his own and respected,” he stressed.
While applauding the global strides made by today’s Afrobeat artistes, Femi called on Nigerians to reject rivalry-fuelled narratives and embrace unity and collective progress.
He also expressed frustration that decades after Fela’s death, many of the issues his music confronted remain unresolved.
“For 29 years, he has been gone, yet we are still discussing the same issues,” he said, noting that corruption, insecurity, tribalism and terrorism have continued to deepen.
Prompt News reports Femi concluded by urging young Nigerians to channel the international spotlight on Nigerian music into meaningful 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,” he added.
