Stay true to Fela Kuti’s legacy, Yomi Fabiyi urges Wizkid

Actor Yomi Fabiyi has written an open letter to Wizkid, urging him not to erase Fela Kuti’s image he tattooed on his skin amid recent controversy.

Fabiyi acknowledged Wizkid’s celebration of Fela’s legacy, citing his participation in Felabration events and positive remarks about the late legend.

He reminded Wizkid of his influential status, saying he represents a revolution in Nigeria and Afrobeat music.

Fabiyi encouraged Wizkid to manage the situation and continue celebrating Fela’s legacy, emphasising that he is a big star, a living legend, and a national asset.

He wrote: “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.

“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.

“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.

“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. May you live long and fulfil more dreams. Greater you, Wizzy”.

The letter comes after Seun Kuti, Fela’s son, slammed Wizkid’s fanbase for involving Fela’s name in online music disputes.

According to him, labelling modern artists as the “new Fela” underestimates his father’s impact.

Following the online brouhaha, Wizkid claimed superiority over Fela and questioned Seun’s right to claim his father’s legacy.