Wizkid Is Like A Son To Me” – Femi Kuti Draws The Line On Fela Comparisons

According to Ireporter Online, Afrobeat icon Femi Kuti has weighed in on the ongoing debate comparing his late father, legendary musician Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, with contemporary Afrobeats star Wizkid, describing the comparison as unnecessary and misplaced.

Speaking during a recent television appearance, Femi Kuti said his father occupies a unique space in music and activism that should not be measured against any other artist. He noted that while he holds Wizkid in high regard and considers him like a son, Fela’s legacy stands apart and should remain incomparable.

Femi stressed that Fela’s influence transcended music, adding that the late Afrobeat pioneer remains a symbol of resistance, social consciousness, and cultural identity. He said the continued comparisons distract from more pressing national issues that demand collective attention.

The Afrobeat musician urged Nigerians, particularly young people, to redirect their energy towards nation-building and meaningful civic engagement. He said Nigeria’s growing recognition on global platforms such as the Grammys should be celebrated, as it reflects positively on Africa and the country at large.

Femi further warned that Nigeria risks deeper crises if young people fail to take responsibility for demanding accountability and good governance. He reflected on the enduring relevance of his father’s messages, noting that despite Fela’s passing nearly three decades ago, many of the societal problems he spoke against—such as corruption, insecurity, and poverty—remain unresolved.

Concluding, Femi expressed concern over the persistence of political and social decay, revealing that a significant portion of his own music over the past four decades has focused on political themes. He questioned how long Nigerians would continue to discuss the same issues without taking concrete steps toward building a united and functional nation.