The Olu of Kemta Orile, Odeda Local Government, Ogun State, Oba Adetokunbo Tejuosho, has strongly condemned popular Fuji musician Taye Currency for what he described as “disgusting and uncultured lyrics” during the installation of Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadan, Oyo State, on Friday.
In a viral video that has sparked outrage, the musician was heard singing in Yoruba, “Were la fi n wo were” — meaning “We cure madness with madness.”
Oba Tejuosho, in a statement issued Saturday, described the act as an insult to Yoruba tradition and the sanctity of kingship:
“The throne of our ancestors is not a stage for mockery, nor the coronation of a great monarch a subject for careless entertainment. Kingship is sacred, adorned with honor and guarded by tradition. It demands reverence, dignity, class, and utmost respect from all who stand in its presence.”
He stressed that music at a royal coronation is not “mere noise” but an offering of homage to history, culture, and authority. According to him, Taye Currency’s choice of words was “classless, unbefitting of the occasion, and an insult to the sacredness of the gathering.”
The monarch noted that the coronation of Oba Ladoja, a historic figure who has served as senator, governor, and now king, was attended by eminent dignitaries, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, ambassadors, political leaders, and royals from across Nigeria.
“To render such careless entertainment before the entire world is unacceptable,” Oba Tejuosho declared. “Before the throne, words must carry weight, rhythm must uphold respect, and melody must be a vessel of honor. To do otherwise is to stain the dignity of our heritage.”
The royal father questioned the judgment of organizers who engaged Taye Currency for such a high-profile cultural event, stressing that more seasoned musicians such as King Sunny Ade, Ebenezer Obey, or Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (K1) — or calmer Fuji artistes like Rasheed Ayinde — would have been more fitting choices.
He concluded that the coronation of a monarch is a sacred moment steeped in tradition and national pride, warning that no one should be allowed to bring such revered cultural and spiritual events into disrepute.
