Nigerian Musician Seun Kuti Criticizes Activist Aisha Yesufu Over Women’s Liberation Advocacy

A heated debate has unfolded between renowned Afrobeat musician Seun Kuti and prominent human rights activist Aisha Yesufu, the convener of the Bring Back Our Girls Movement. The disagreement revolves around Yesufu’s advocacy for women’s liberation in Nigeria. Kuti’s criticism stems from his argument that embracing Islamic or Christian practices leads to abandoning African identity.

During a TV show, Kuti and Yesufu engaged in an argument, which the musician discussed in a post on his official page. He emphasized the importance of maintaining African heritage and critiqued Yesufu for wearing a hijab while advocating for the liberation of Nigerian women. Kuti contended that once an individual becomes a Christian or Muslim, they have abandoned their African roots.

“It’s the Africanness in us that is helping your European behavior,” Kuti expressed, highlighting his frustration with the blend of Western and African customs. He also took issue with Yesufu’s attire, stating, “That one tied hijab saying she wanted to liberate Nigerian women…liberate yourself from your hijab first.”

Kuti’s assertion sparks a broader conversation about the preservation of cultural identity, particularly in the context of Nigeria, where diverse ethnic and religious groups coexist. As a prominent musician and social commentator, Kuti’s opinions carry significant weight, and his critique of Yesufu’s stance is likely to resonate with many in the Nigerian community.

The debate surrounding the roles of culture, religion, and identity in Nigeria’s modern society remains ongoing. Seun Kuti’s critique of Aisha Yesufu serves as a call to examine the significance of embracing indigenous heritage while navigating the complexities of cultural influences. Ultimately, this contentious discussion exemplifies the dynamic and multifaceted nature of Nigerian society.