Veteran Nigerian music icon Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2Baba, has described the ongoing comparisons between Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and contemporary superstar Wizkid as “ridiculous.”
Speaking on the Mic On Podcast with Seun Okinbaloye, 2Baba said the comparison is both disrespectful to Fela’s legacy and unfair to Wizkid’s achievements. He emphasised that each artist should be celebrated for their unique contributions to Nigerian music.
“It’s disrespectful to Fela, and at the same time unfair to Wizkid,” 2Baba said, noting that their different eras and impacts make the comparison meaningless.
The debate intensified after Fela’s son, Seun Kuti, criticised Wizkid FC, the singer’s fanbase, for likening Wizkid to his late father. Seun insisted that Fela’s legacy should not be dragged into discussions about contemporary music.
“Keep Fela’s name out of your mouths. Why must you always bring Fela into your discussions?” he said in a live Instagram session, adding that the constant comparisons reflect a culture of unnecessary drama in music.
The controversy escalated after some fans referred to Wizkid as the “Biggest Bird,” a nickname similar to Seun’s own long-standing moniker, “Big Bird.” Seun accused Wizkid of appropriating the name and criticised him for benefiting from the association with his father’s legacy.
Wizkid responded on Instagram with direct remarks, calling Seun a “p***y boy” and asserting, “I’m Big Wiz everyday bigger than your papa!!” The exchange sparked widespread commentary across social media.
Members of Fela’s family also weighed in. His daughter Yeni Kuti urged calm, stressing that public disputes between prominent figures harm Nigeria’s cultural reputation.
“When two giants fight, it’s the ground that suffers. In this case, it is Nigeria’s reputation,” she said, urging fans to respect Fela’s legacy while appreciating Wizkid’s success.
Meanwhile, other public figures have offered perspectives on the debate. Former senator Shehu Sani praised Fela as an icon of resistance and freedom, while entertainer Charly Boy highlighted the distinct greatness of both artists, noting that Fela’s influence was rooted in activism, whereas Wizkid celebrates African culture through global music.