Seun Kuti Blasts ‘New Fela’ Tag for Wizkid, Calls Comparison Disrespectful

Seun Kuti, son of Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, has strongly criticised the growing trend of referring to Afrobeats superstar Wizkid as the “new Fela,” describing it as insulting and historically inaccurate.

During a recent Instagram Live session, the Grammy-nominated musician addressed Wizkid’s fanbase, popularly known as Wizkid FC, urging them to stop linking the singer to his late father.

According to Seun, placing any contemporary artiste in the same bracket as Fela diminishes the depth, impact, and cultural weight of the Afrobeat pioneer’s legacy.

“Leave Fela’s name out of your conversations,” he said. “Trying to push Wizkid as the new Fela is disrespectful. The shoes are too big to fill, and it is wrong to even attempt such a comparison.”

Seun further argued that the constant use of Fela’s name in online fan wars reflects a lack of understanding and respect for history.

He noted that while he respects rebellion and defiance when it is rooted in knowledge, what he sees from some fans is ignorance rather than conscious resistance.

“I enjoy defiance when it comes from awareness, but this one is coming from ignorance,” he stated. “You cannot keep dragging Fela into petty debates. It is unnecessary and disrespectful.”

The outspoken singer also blamed extreme fan rivalries for hurting the Nigerian music industry, revealing that some artists avoid collaborations because of fear of online backlash from fan groups.

According to him, Wizkid FC’s behaviour online has gone beyond harmless support and is now affecting industry relationships.

He went further to question why some fans feel the need to compare their favourite artistes with legends, suggesting it may be a sign of insecurity.

“Why can’t you just enjoy your artist without comparing him to someone else?” Seun asked. “If the music truly satisfies you, you won’t need to drag another person’s legacy into it.”

Seun’s comments have since sparked heated reactions across social media, with many defending Wizkid while others agreeing that Fela’s legacy should not be used as a comparison tool in fan arguments.