A Nigerian man has captured significant attention on social media after sharing a detailed video tour of the preserved home of the late Afrobeat icon, Fela Aníkúlápó Kuti. The video, posted on TikTok by a user identified as Chukwuemeka, offers an intimate look inside the legendary musician's residence in Ikeja, Lagos, which has been transformed into a museum dedicated to his life and enduring legacy.
Inside Fela Kuti's Preserved Home Museum
The video provides a comprehensive walkthrough of the property, highlighting various artifacts and personal items that belonged to Fela. According to Chukwuemeka, the house served as Fela's home for eleven years prior to his passing and is also his final resting place. The tour begins at the entrance, where visitors are required to pay an admission fee of ₦7,500 for adults, with reduced rates for children, estimated between ₦2,000 and ₦5,000.
Artworks and Personal Belongings on Display
Upon entering, the museum reveals an extensive collection of artworks, family portraits, and seven album copies of Fela's music. Key exhibits include Fela's piano, used during his performances, and photographs from his tours. The space is adorned with numerous portraits and creative pieces, many of which are contributed by artists during the annual Fellaboration celebration in October, marking Fela's birthday.
Chukwuemeka emphasized that the house functions as a museum due to the abundance of artistic displays and historical items. He noted, "I will call the house a museum because get ready to see a lot of artwork inside and a family portrait."
Fela's Room and Other Notable Features
A focal point of the tour is Fela's bedroom, meticulously preserved to reflect its state during his lifetime. The room contains personal effects such as his clothing, performance shoes, a mat where he slept, and his freezer. Additionally, visitors can view Fela's Grammy Hall of Fame award, adding to the room's historical significance.
The museum also includes a section dedicated to Fela's wives, with accommodation prices ranging from ₦30,000 to ₦50,000. A rooftop bar offers palm wine and provides panoramic views of Fela's grave, enhancing the immersive experience for guests.
Mixed Reactions from Social Media Users
The video has elicited a wide range of responses from Nigerians on social media, sparking discussions about the museum's value and authenticity. Some users expressed skepticism about the admission fees, while others praised the educational aspect of the tour.
- @Andrew commented, "Wait oo u mean people pay to enter inside just to see all this broo, Omo I can never do such a thing Aswr."
- @Victor C Okafor remarked, "And a small boy of yesterday will come and tell me that he's bigger than fela, I don't blame him."
- @Funnygt1 suggested, "If this is going to upset you then get ready, this particular place is not supposed to be more than 1500 to 2,000."
- @P_Peetaah questioned, "This your video dey confuse me. Is this is fela's house or there's a museum in the compound abi na the house gan gan dem turn to mesuem?? People don't live in the house?and you showed a room and said it's 50k and it was used by fela's wife. What's the 50k for??"
- @Olufemi Ogun appreciated the insight, stating, "This is truly illuminating, and thank you very much for what you do. I would like to visit this place very soon."
Context and Related Events
This viral tour coincides with other notable visits to Fela-related sites, such as Nigerian singer Portable's recent trip to the Afrika Shrine, where he met Femi Kuti. These events underscore the ongoing cultural significance of Fela Kuti's legacy in Nigeria and beyond, attracting both local and international attention.
The museum not only serves as a tribute to Fela's musical contributions but also as a cultural hub that celebrates his life through art and community events. The annual Fellaboration festival further reinforces this, drawing artists and fans to commemorate his birth.
As social media continues to amplify such experiences, the preservation of Fela's home offers a tangible connection to his history, inspiring both nostalgia and curiosity among new generations. The video has effectively highlighted the intersection of heritage, tourism, and digital storytelling in contemporary Nigeria.
