Social media influencer VeryDarkMan (VDM) has accused Afrobeat superstar Wizkid of showing disrespect to music legend Fela Kuti and other Nigerian music pioneers.
In a video that went viral on Thursday, VDM criticized Nigeria’s treatment of its music icons, claiming the country fails to honor its cultural legends while other nations celebrate their great artists. He argued that Nigerian veterans who speak on national and industry issues are often insulted or ignored.
VDM singled out a list of influential Nigerian musicians—including Eldee the Don, African China, Plantation Boiz, Psquare, Remedies, Tony Tetuila, Jazzman Olofin, 9ice, Vector, Sasha P, Asa, Weird MC, 2Face Idibia, and Blackface—saying, “People you are supposed to idolise and respect are called ‘past glory’ in this country.”
He specifically criticized Wizkid for comments that allegedly led some of his fans to insult Fela Kuti, calling on the Afrobeat star to handle such comparisons more responsibly.
VDM addressed ongoing debates comparing Wizkid to Fela, particularly those referencing Wizkid’s 2021 Grammy win for Best Music Video as a featured artist on Beyoncé’s Brown Skin Girl. He dismissed claims that this award places Wizkid above the late Afrobeat pioneer, noting that Beyoncé’s influence largely contributed to the recognition.
Highlighting Fela Kuti’s global influence, VDM recalled Beyoncé’s tribute performances to the Afrobeat icon, including her rendition of Zombie—a song inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2025—and praised Fela in multiple interviews. He also noted that Fela is expected to receive a posthumous Lifetime Achievement Award, affirming his enduring legacy.
The influencer praised other Nigerian artists, such as Burna Boy and Tems, for Grammy wins rooted in individual artistry, pointing to Burna Boy’s Best Global Music Album award for Twice As Tall and Tems’ multiple Grammy recognitions.
VDM further defended Fela Kuti against criticisms of his personal life, particularly his multiple marriages, questioning why historical figures like King Solomon are revered despite similar controversies.
Concluding his statement, VDM asserted that Wizkid has not surpassed Fela Kuti or other members of the Kuti family, including Femi, Seun, and Made Kuti, whose contributions continue to shape African music and global cultural discourse.
