Wizkid and Seun Kuti: Ongoing Reactions to Their Online Dispute

Babafemi Ojudu, a former Special Adviser on Political Matters to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, has voiced his disapproval of the recent comments made by artist Ayodeji “Wizkid” Balogun regarding his perceived superiority over Afrobeat icon, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti. He urged the public to overlook these statements.

PREMIUM TIMES reported that an online disagreement between the ‘Ojuelgba’ musical star and one of Fela’s descendants, Seun Kuti, escalated when Wizkid claimed he is greater than the Afrobeat legend and questioned Seun on how he would respond.

This online confrontation arose when members of Wizkid FC referred to the artist as a “modern-day Fela.” Seun quickly refuted this notion, asserting that Fela is of greater significance.

In a Facebook post responding to Wizkid’s assertions on Wednesday, Ojudu, who also served as the representative of Ekiti Central Senatorial District from 2011 to 2015, stated that modern artists need to establish a revolutionary legacy before drawing comparisons with the late Fela.

Ojudu elaborated on Fela’s enduring impact, highlighting that his music has been widely embraced, with international celebrities drawing inspiration from his work and his compositions being studied at various academic institutions globally.

The politician, also recognized as a journalist, asserted that Fela was not merely a musician; he was a movement and a voice of resistance against oppression. His brave actions during turbulent political times significantly contributed to combatting corruption and injustice.

He expressed concern over Wizkid's self-assertion, questioning, “Is it true that a Nigerian youth claims to be greater than Fela? I genuinely hope this is a misquote. Even if he were to live a thousand lives, he would not compare to Fela Anikulapo-Kuti in artistry, activism, or originality.”

“Fela was a revolutionary force, a living embodiment of change. His music brought forth Afrobeat, a genre that now holds a place in global academic curricula and has influenced artists worldwide. Fela’s sound transformed the music landscape, enriching African identity,” Ojudu continued.

He noted that Fela faced profound challenges, including imprisonments and brutalities from the state, yet he unwaveringly used his art to fight societal injustices and called out governmental corruption.

“Those who aspire to compare themselves with Fela must first endure the trials he faced, including confinement in Nigerian prisons and suffering great personal losses,” he remarked.

Mr. Ojudu also underscored Fela’s international recognition as one of the most impactful musicians of the 20th century, whose life and works inspired numerous artistic collaborations, books, and research studies, symbolizing African resistance and intellectual liberty.

He urged that anyone who makes such comparisons to be overlooked, suggesting that such individuals may lack the courage to face real adversity, stating, “Fela did not flee. He stood firm against oppression. He remains eternal.”

Additionally, nearly three decades following his passing, the legendary Fela Anikulapo-Kuti was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2025 for his timeless album, Zombie. The Recording Academy also recently recognized him with a Special Merit Award at the 2026 Grammy Awards for his lasting contributions to music.