Seun Kuti has issued a strong response to the ongoing comparisons between his late father, Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, and contemporary Nigerian superstar Wizkid. Speaking out against the trend, Seun urged Nigerians and fans to stop making such comparisons and allow Fela’s legacy to be appreciated on its own merit without unnecessary parallels to modern artistes.
Why the Wizkid–Fela comparison is wrong, according to Seun
The musician, activist, and eldest son of Fela explained that the constant comparisons are both disrespectful and misplaced. He emphasized that his family has never attempted to elevate Fela above other global music icons in such a way, and he questioned why contemporary fans feel compelled to measure current stars against his father’s achievements.
In a video circulating widely on social media, Seun stated that his family has never compared Fela to international legends such as Bob Marley or Michael Jackson, noting that each artist’s greatness should be recognized in their own context. He stressed that it is unnecessary and counterproductive to create forced hierarchies between musicians from different eras.
“We never call my father the new Bob Marley or the new Michael Jackson. So why are people always trying to compare Wizkid to Fela? Let everyone be who they are,” Seun said, highlighting the importance of appreciating each artiste’s unique contribution to music and culture.
‘Let my father rest in peace’ — Seun Kuti speaks out
Seun further explained that while he respects Wizkid’s accomplishments and recognises his impact on the global music stage, comparing him to Fela undermines the distinctiveness and historical significance of both artists. According to Seun, Fela’s influence went far beyond music, encompassing politics, activism, and cultural revolution, which set him apart as more than just a musician.
“My father was not just a musician, he was a movement. Wizkid is doing great, but they are not the same thing. Let Wizkid be Wizkid, let Fela be Fela,” he added, reinforcing the idea that each artiste deserves to be appreciated within their own lane without being forced into comparisons that diminish their contributions.
Seun also cautioned that such comparisons often lead to unnecessary online debates and fan wars, which distract from celebrating Nigerian music as a whole. He encouraged fans to support and uplift all artistes while respecting the legacies of past icons instead of dragging them into modern-day debates for the sake of argument.
The remarks have since sparked conversations across social media platforms, with many fans echoing Seun’s sentiment and calling for a more respectful appreciation of Fela’s enduring impact on music and society.
Watch the video below…
“Wizkid is the greatest artist in the world. I could also say Wizkid is the greatest artist of all time. But my problem is do not say after Fela. Y’all should let my father rest in peace.”
-Seun Kuti pic.twitter.com/zmQObMoU6S
— Arthur🇳🇬🇬🇧🇸🇳 (@AjMachalaa) January 14, 2026[/p>