Femi Kuti Dismisses Claims of Political Support for Buhari and Tinubu
Veteran Afrobeat musician Femi Kuti has firmly rejected assertions that he ever supported former President Muhammadu Buhari or campaigned for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. In a recent interview on Arise Television, Kuti described these claims as false and personally distressing, stating they contradict the legacy of his late father, Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti.
Grammy Award Sparks Reflection on Fela's Struggle
The discussion emerged as Femi Kuti reflected on the posthumous Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award conferred on Fela in Los Angeles. He explained that this honour symbolises global recognition of Fela's lifelong battle against dictatorship, corruption, and injustice across Nigeria and Africa. "My father's music was inseparable from our political history," Femi noted, highlighting how Fela's work evolved from popular hits in the 1960s into a powerful tool of resistance against successive regimes.
Lasting Impact of Fela's Persecution on His Family
Femi Kuti recalled the severe harassment Fela endured from authorities, including:
- Repeated raids on his home
- The burning of Kalakuta Republic
- The violent attack on his mother that led to her death
These experiences, according to Femi, left permanent scars on the family, who lived under constant fear of arrest and persecution. Fela, widely regarded as the creator of Afrobeat, used his music to challenge military rule and expose corruption during the 1970s and 1980s, facing imprisonment and violence but solidifying his reputation as a fearless voice for the oppressed.
Impossibility of Aligning with Oppressive Governments
Speaking on contemporary politics, Femi emphasised that it would be impossible for Fela's children to align with any government that does not genuinely serve the people, particularly those that once oppressed their father. "Associating me with leaders my father opposed is deeply offensive," he insisted, clarifying that his family's principles remain rooted in Fela's activist legacy.
Collective Celebration of Fela's Grammy Recognition
Regarding the Grammy award, Femi highlighted the collective effort of his siblings, his son Made Kuti, and the broader Afrobeat community in preserving Fela's legacy. He explained that musicians continue to perform Fela's songs, scholars study his work, and new Afrobeat artists draw inspiration from his message. "This award celebrates all who see Fela as a voice for the voiceless, not just our family alone," he stated.
Public Reaction and Broader Context
Public responses to Femi's statement have been largely supportive, with many praising his clarity and integrity. Social media users acknowledged Fela's enduring influence as more than a musician—a voice for Africa whose message continues to resonate. Additionally, Femi has previously distanced himself from debates comparing modern Nigerian artists to Fela, preferring to focus on pressing national issues rather than unnecessary comparisons.
