Fuji musician Taye Currency has come under heavy criticism following his performance at the coronation of Oba Rashidi Ladoja as the new Olubadan of Ibadanland.
The traditional ruler was installed on Saturday, two months after the death of his predecessor, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin. The ceremony, which drew dignitaries including President Bola Tinubu and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, was marred by controversy over the musician’s choice of lyrics.
Performing as a guest artiste, Taye Currency sang the line, “were la fi n wo were”, a Yoruba phrase meaning “we used insanity to cure insanity.” The statement quickly drew backlash online, with many deeming it disrespectful and unbefitting of such a significant cultural event.
By evening, Taye Currency’s name had become a trending topic on X (formerly Twitter), as Nigerians weighed in with sharp criticism.
One user, @olatunbosun006, described the performance as a “total embarrassment,” while @Fortune4me_ola asked, “Who gave him mic to sing this rubbish in coronation?”
Another critic, @fesooyebade, labeled it “an historic disappointment,” stressing that the songs were “not fitting for such a historic occasion.”
Others argued the organizers were to blame for selecting the Fuji star over more widely celebrated performers.
Despite the criticisms, the coronation itself was a moment of cultural pride for Ibadan, attended by notable Yoruba monarchs including the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Adeoye; Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Adewale; and Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade.
As reactions continue to pour in, the debate highlights growing public expectations around cultural sensitivity and artistic responsibility during traditional ceremonies of national significance.
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