Afrobeat musician and activist Seun Kuti has sparked debate after calling out some of Nigeria’s biggest artistes for failing to give back to the fans who helped build their careers.
In a statement shared recently, Seun Kuti lamented that the poorest Nigerians—who show the most love and support for the country’s top entertainers—are often excluded from enjoying their performances because ticket prices are unaffordable or concerts are mostly staged abroad.
“I know many of you will feel offended by what I’m going to say, but I’ll say it anyway. It is a big shame that the so-called biggest artistes in Nigeria that the poor people love the most, the poor people cannot even afford to experience them or attend their concerts, despite their love and support,” he said.
The outspoken musician linked this trend to a larger pattern of neo-colonialism, arguing that African resources, including talent, are often exported for the benefit of outsiders rather than the people on the continent.
“Our resources are not meant for us to enjoy. Our resources are for the people outside of the continent to enjoy. It’s the same way these biggest artistes are. The people back home who love and support them to become what they are now can’t even afford to see or experience them back home. All their concerts are outside the continent. It’s the people outside that are enjoying them instead of the African people.”
Seun Kuti’s comments have since triggered conversations on social media, with some users agreeing that international shows prioritize foreign audiences at the expense of homegrown fans, while others defended the artistes, noting that global tours are essential for expanding their brands and revenue.
Kuti, the youngest son of Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo Kuti, has long been vocal about social justice and inequality in Africa. His latest remarks continue his tradition of challenging the entertainment industry and its relationship with ordinary Nigerians.
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