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Nollywood actor and activist Yomi Fabiyi has penned an open letter to music star Wizkid, urging him to tread carefully amid the growing controversy surrounding comments perceived as downplaying the legacy of Afrobeat pioneer, Fela Anikulapo Kuti.
The intervention follows a heated online exchange sparked after Fela’s son, Seun Kuti, criticised Wizkid’s fanbase, popularly known as Wizkid FC, for frequently dragging his late father’s name into social media debates about modern music stars. Seun argued that referring to any contemporary artiste as the “new Fela” reflects a poor understanding of the depth, sacrifice, and political weight of his father’s legacy.
The situation escalated when Wizkid, during the online back-and-forth, declared himself bigger than the late Afrobeat icon and questioned Seun Kuti’s right to inherit or speak on his father’s greatness. The remarks triggered widespread reactions across social media, with opinions sharply divided.
Reacting to the development, Yomi Fabiyi addressed Wizkid directly in an open letter, advising him not to make decisions he might later regret, including removing the tattoo of Fela Kuti he carries on his body. Fabiyi described the moment as a “storm” that needed to be handled with wisdom and restraint, given Wizkid’s influence and status.
“Dear Wizzy,
Please don’t be tempted to erase Fela’s image you tattooed. Manage this storm very well, mate. You unarguably represent a revolution/history in Nigeria and Afrobeat music,” Fabiyi wrote.
The actor acknowledged Wizkid’s immense contribution to Nigerian music and stressed that the Grammy-winning singer represents a defining chapter in the evolution of Afrobeat and Nigerian pop culture on the global stage.
Fabiyi went on to reflect on Fela Kuti’s historic role, emphasising that his importance transcended music alone.
“Yes, aside from the fact that Late Legend, Fela, enjoys pioneer status, he represents a revolution, and his impact is felt in giving voice to the voiceless, fighting corruption, making sacrifices, and, indeed, in the democracy we now enjoy. His music is a movement,” he stated.
According to Fabiyi, Wizkid has consistently shown admiration for Fela in ways many Nigerians have not. He cited Wizkid’s participation in Felabration events, his public tributes, and his decision to tattoo Fela’s image as proof of genuine respect rather than opportunism.
“You have acknowledged and celebrated Fela more than millions of us have. For a musician of your status to have graced several Felabrations means you have ensured you sustain Fela’s legacy. For a global music legend like you to have him tattooed on your skin and for you to speak highly of him in a recent documentary, etc., we understand your genuine opinion, and the situation should have been handled better,” Fabiyi added.
Encouraging reconciliation rather than rivalry, Fabiyi urged Wizkid to continue honouring Fela’s memory while maintaining dignity and peace in the face of criticism.
“Continue celebrating Fela and walk the path of honour and peace. You are a BIG STAR, a living legend, and a national asset, and we hold Legendary Fela Anikulapo and Ayo Balogun in high esteem. I can’t trade you both for anything. I don’t compare because comparison proves nothing,” he wrote.
He concluded with prayers and goodwill for the singer: “May you live long and fulfil more dreams. Greater you, Wizzy.”
The controversy adds to a history of bold statements by Wizkid that have often stirred public debate. Last year, the singer caused a stir after declaring himself the “001” of the music industry, confidently positioning himself as number one.
In 2024, Wizkid also sparked backlash while announcing an album, when he warned Nigerians against categorising him strictly as an Afrobeat artiste and cautioned fans not to download his project. Many critics accused him of disrespecting the genre that paved the way for his global success.
Defending his stance at the time, Wizkid clarified that his intention was not to dismiss Afrobeat but to reject being boxed or stereotyped. He explained that while he is an African artiste, his music transcends labels.
The latest exchange involving Fela Kuti’s legacy has once again placed Wizkid at the centre of a broader conversation about respect, history, and identity in Nigerian music.
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