Fela’s Museum Long Overdue —Femi Kuti

The first son of the late afro beat legend, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, Femi, has urged the Lagos State Government not to relent in the support of the ongoing renovation of Fela’s house until it becomes a museum.

He said that the idea was long overdue for government to partner with Fela’s estate in building the museum.

He said while Chief MKO Abiola, Chief Gani Fawehinmi and others were celebrated, Fela was not given recognition despite his struggle for the emergence of a true democracy.

The Lagos State Government should contribute to Fela’s Museum not only because it is long overdue but also because Fela contributed positively to the entrenchment of true democracy and social justice. For these reasons, he was jailed,” Femi said.

“I am grateful to Governor Babatunde Fashola for having the integrity to recognise that Fela’s name is long overdue to be immortalised,” Femi added.

Commenting Fela’s daughter, Yeni Kuti said that she was not surprised that the Federal Government does not consider it worthwhile to appreciate and honour Fela like the Lagos State Government, adding that it has failed to acknowledge Fela’s music that was accepted worldwide during and after his life time.

She added: “the project has got to an advanced stage but still needs more financial support from individuals, groups and corporate organisations.”

Renowned Economist Chief Rasheed Gbadamosi, while supervising the project on Thursday located along Gbemisola Street, Ikeja also spoke on the museum.

Gbadamosi, an ardent fan of Fela’s Afro beat songs said: “standing here in his house today, I heard echoes of Fela’s unbelievable eternal sounds. It’s incredible. I have memories of his dreams seated in his grave.

“His children are trying in keeping his legacy alive through their musical achievements. Felabration is a great avenue for people to celebrate the philosophy of Felaism in his fight for justice and spirit of Africanism.

“There is need for Fela’s virtues to be extolled. When he was alive, he hoped to see the society in order. Most of his prophecies are coming to pass. The ongoing reconstruction of his house to a Museum when opened would go beyond a museum but a mausoleum.”

—Ayodeji Dedeigbo & Daniel Ogunjobi