“I don’t believe prayer works” — Seun Kuti declares

Afrobeat musician and social activist Seun Kuti has stirred reactions online after declaring that he has never prayed in his life, expressing strong scepticism about the practice of prayer and public displays of worship.

Kuti made the remarks in a video that has since circulated widely on social media, where he criticised what he described as performative spirituality.

According to him, true spirituality is not found in outward religious rituals but in the way people live their lives and treat others.

“I have never prayed before in my life. I don’t believe it works,” Kuti said.

“All this eye service you people are doing — kneeling down, rolling on the ground, shouting — they are all childishness.”

The outspoken musician argued that morality and personal conduct are more meaningful than religious ceremonies, insisting that a person’s daily actions reflect their true spiritual state.

“Your life is the prayer. What you do with your life is the prayer,” he added.