You’re Dirtying Nigeria, Not Fela’s Family — Yeni Kuti Tells Wizkid

Yeni Kuti, daughter of Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, has called for calm and reconciliation amid the ongoing controversy involving singer Wizkid and the Kuti family, warning that the public dispute reflects poorly on Nigeria rather than on her father’s legacy.
Speaking on TVC’s Your View, Yeni said she holds Wizkid in high esteem and expressed disappointment that he did not step in earlier to halt the backlash that followed the controversy.
“I love Wizkid a lot. He’s my padi, my small friend. We’ve come a long way together. I remember when he started at the Shrine as a backup singer during Felabration,” she said.
Yeni explained that she deliberately refused to engage in public exchanges or insults, stressing that such conflicts often harm innocent people.
“When two giants fight, it is the grass that suffers,” she said.
Calling for peace, she urged all parties to mend fences, particularly at a time when Nigeria is preparing to celebrate Fela’s legacy on the global stage.
“We are one people. We’re about to celebrate our icon at the Grammy, and you’re all doing this. You’re not dirtying Fela or his family; you’re dirtying Nigeria,” she stated.
Yeni also questioned why her late father continues to be drawn into controversies decades after his death, describing it as evidence of his enduring influence and greatness.
“Fela has been dead for 27 years, and you are still mentioning his name. That is the answer to his greatness,” she said.
She urged critics to resolve their disagreements among themselves and leave the legacy of the Afrobeat legend untouched.
“Fight yourselves, you that are alive, and leave the man that has done his own and gone,” Yeni added.