Afrobeat musician Wizkid has been accused of insulting music legend Fela Kuti by social media influencer VeryDarkMan, also known as VDM.
VDM said in a widely shared video on Thursday that Nigeria is the only nation that does not acknowledge music icons, claiming that although other nations honour great musicians, Nigerians dismiss theirs as “past glory.”
He continued by saying that some Nigerian music pioneers and veterans who express their worries about the industry and national issues are either disregarded or insulted.
Calling names like Eldee the Don, African China, Plantation Boiz, Psquare, Remedies, Tony Tetuila, Jazzman Olofin, 9ice, Vector, Sasha P, Asa, Weird MC, 2Face Idibia and Blackface, he said, “People you are supposed to idolise and respect are called ‘past glory’ in this country.”
The activist and social media influencer went on to condemn Wizkid’s remarks, claiming they led his fabs to disparage Fela.
He claimed that while conflicts are common, Wizkid ought to have handled the matter more skilfully.
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He discusses the persistent parallels between Wizkid and Fela Kuti, particularly those that revolve on the Grammy Award.
He denied that Wizkid’s Grammy victory elevates him beyond the late Afrobeat legend.
VeryDarkMan contended that Beyoncé, not Wizkid’s own artistry, had a significant influence on the win.
As a featured artist on Beyoncé’s Brown Skin Girl with Blue Ivy, Wizkid won a Grammy in 2021 for Best Music Video.
VDM pointed out that international music superstar, Beyoncé, has repeatedly celebrated the late Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti, recalling how she once performed Zombie as a tribute and praised Fela in several interviews.
According to him, Zombie was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2025, while Fela Kuti is also expected to receive a posthumous Lifetime Achievement Award.
In contrast, VeryDarkMan singled out Burna Boy and Tems as Nigerian artistes whose Grammy wins were based purely on individual musical contributions.
He referenced Burna Boy’s Best Global Music Album win for Twice As Tall, as well as Tems’ multiple Grammy awards, arguing that their recognitions were a direct reflection of artistic merit.
The activist also came to Fela Kuti’s defence over criticisms of his personal life, particularly his multiple marriages.
He questioned why historical figures such as King Solomon are widely revered despite similar controversies, while Fela continues to face harsh judgment.
VeryDarkMan insisted that Wizkid, musically and artistically, has not surpassed Fela Kuti or other members of the Kuti dynasty, including Femi Kuti, Seun Kuti and Made Kuti.
According to him, the Kuti family’s enduring influence on African music and global cultural discourse remains unmatched by many contemporary stars.
