Oba Adetokunbo Tejuosho, the Olu of Kemta Orile in Odeda Local Government Area, Ogun State, has publicly condemned popular Fuji musician Taye Currency for performing what he described as “disgusting and uncultured lyrics” during the installation of Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadan, Oyo State, last Friday.
A viral video of the performance has sparked widespread controversy after Taye Currency was heard singing the Yoruba phrase “Were la fi n wo were,” which translates as “we cure madness with madness.” The lyric was deemed highly inappropriate for the solemn occasion.
In a statement released on Saturday, Oba Tejuosho criticised the musician for failing to show the respect due to the Yoruba tradition and the sacredness of the coronation event through what he called careless entertainment and a vain glory song.
“The coronation of a monarch is a momentous occasion steeped in tradition, grandeur, and collective pride,” the royal father said. “It demands reverence, dignity, honour, class and the utmost respect from all who stand in its presence. The throne of our ancestors is not a stage for mockery, nor the coronation of a great monarch a subject for careless entertainment.”
Oba Tejuosho underscored the importance of music at such ceremonies, stating that it must serve as “an offering of homage to history, culture, and authority.” He described the lyrics sung by Taye Currency as “classless and unbefitting,” calling it an insult to the sacred gathering attended by dignitaries from across the nation and the world.
Highlighting the stature of His Majesty Oba Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja Arusa the First, who is celebrated as Nigeria’s first senator, governor, and king, Oba Tejuosho emphasised that such a grand occasion warranted performances by artistes who command respect and tradition.
He questioned the choice of Taye Currency for the event, especially given the presence of high-profile guests including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that legendary musicians such as King Sunny Ade, Commander Ebenezer Obey, or Alhaji Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (K1 De Ultimate) would have been more appropriate. If local representation was desired, artistes like Alhaji Rasheed Ayinde (Merenge) would have been a better fit, he suggested.
The statement called on event organisers to exercise greater discernment in future to preserve the dignity and sanctity of Nigeria’s traditional institutions.
