By Ghazali Ibrahim
Nigerian Afrobeat musician Seun Kuti has intensified his public criticism of Wizkid, claiming the Grammy-winning singer will “never do great again in life” unless he removes a tattoo of Seun’s late father, Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, from his arm.
During an Instagram Live session on Wednesday, Seun urged Wizkid to replace the tattoo with an image of his own father, warning that keeping Fela’s likeness inked on his body could block his path to further success. The exchange reflects an ongoing online dispute between the two artists and their fan communities over comparisons between their careers and legacies.
The feud began after Seun condemned fans of Wizkid known as Wizkid FC for drawing parallels between the global pop star and Fela, whom he argues transcended music by serving as a revolutionary and activist. Seun has repeatedly stated that equating any contemporary artist, including Wizkid, with his father diminishes the cultural and historical significance of Fela’s work.
Seun’s latest comments, during which he referenced the tattoo, come amid broader debates on social media about legacy, influence, and respect within the Nigerian music scene. Critics of the feud say it underscores generational tensions over how musical greatness is defined — whether by modern global success or political and cultural impact.
Wizkid has responded defiantly. In a series of posts on his Instagram Stories and X, he shared a video of a supporter defending his relationship with Fela’s legacy, and also posted a blunt message declaring himself “bigger than your papa” while hurling personal insults at Seun.
The exchange has sparked lively debate online, with fans and observers arguing over how Fela’s legacy should be honoured in the contemporary music landscape and whether comparisons between iconic figures of different eras are fair or respectful.
The feud remains one of the most talked-about entertainment controversies in Nigeria, highlighting the intersection of music, legacy and identity in the age of social media.
