Seun Kuti defends his ‘Big Bird’ nickname, urging Wizkid fans to respect Fela’s legacy and find positive ways to support their favourite

Afrobeats singer Seun Kuti has defended his longstanding nickname “Big Bird,” responding to Wizkid fans who claimed the moniker should be associated with their favourite artist.

Also read: Seun Kuti criticises Wizkid FC over “Big Bird” dispute

The controversy began when a fan on Seun’s Instagram live requested he change the name, asserting Wizkid is the “Biggest Bird.”

Kuti refused, saying the nickname predates Wizkid’s usage.

“Wizkid ‘stole’ my name. Tell your fave to be original. Why are you telling me to change my name? Sorry, I can’t change it. This name has been here since. I am the first to come up with it,” he said.

Seun also criticised Wizkid’s team, including DJ Tunez, for allowing comparisons between Wizkid and his late father, Fela Kuti, noting that such parallels disrespect the legendary musician’s legacy.

“If I see DJ Tunez again, I’ll confront him because he and his team are enjoying the Wizkid and Fela comparison instead of debunking it. I won’t even hug him,” he said.

The singer revealed that Fela’s legacy continues to benefit him financially.

“I recently received about $120,000 simply because I am Fela’s son; it is not my work. My father has died over 29 years from the grave, and I received it. How many of your fathers from the grave can send you $120,000?” Kuti added, stressing that his criticism targets fans, not Wizkid personally.

He urged Wizkid supporters to channel their energy into positive action rather than online disputes.

“I’ll use four days to drag Wizkid FC. They claim they’re over one million, so let them contribute ₦1,000 each for their fave. That’s ₦1 billion to build a school in Surulere on Wizkid’s behalf. Dragging and disrespect is your power. All they do is insult people,” Kuti said.