Afrobeat musician Femi Kuti has criticised ongoing comparisons between contemporary Nigerian music stars and his late father, Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, describing the debate as unnecessary and unhelpful.
Speaking during an interview on Arise Television, Femi said he would not engage in the discussion, arguing that Nigeria faces far more pressing national challenges than celebrity rivalries.
“I wish it never came up. I’m not participating in it,” he said, adding that governance failures and social issues deserve greater attention. “The government doesn’t even know how to move people positively forward. It’s shameful.”
The debate was reignited after Afrobeats star Wizkid reportedly claimed he was bigger than Fela, following an exchange involving Seun Kuti. The comment sparked widespread reactions across social media and the entertainment industry.
Interest in Fela’s legacy has also been renewed after the late musician was nominated for a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, further fuelling conversations about his influence on modern Nigerian music.
Femi Kuti cautioned against placing his father in competition with today’s artistes, insisting that Fela occupies a unique position in Nigeria’s cultural history.
“Fela is the template musically and artistically in Nigeria. He should be put in a sector of his own and respected,” he said.
While acknowledging the global success of contemporary Afrobeats artistes, Femi urged Nigerians to prioritise unity, nation-building, and long-term development over rivalry narratives.
He also lamented Nigeria’s slow political and social progress, noting that many of the issues his father highlighted decades ago—such as corruption, insecurity, and tribalism—remain unresolved.
According to him, the growing global recognition of Nigerian music should be leveraged to strengthen the industry and address the country’s broader challenges. “This recognition is good for Nigeria and Africa. We should use it to build the country, build our music industry, and come together,” he said.
