If You Don’t Take Off My Father’s Tattoo, You Will Never Make Progress With That Hand Again’ — Seun Kuti

Afrobeat musician Seun Kuti has sparked fresh controversy on social media after issuing a stern warning to an individual he accused of disrespecting his late father, legendary musician and activist Fela Anikulapo Kuti.

In a widely shared post, Seun Kuti was quoted as saying, “If you don’t take off my father’s tattoo, you will never make progress with that hand again,” a statement that has since triggered intense debate across social media platforms.

The comment followed a heated online exchange involving the use of Fela Kuti’s image and legacy, with Seun insisting that his father’s name, likeness, and symbols should not be used without consent or in ways he considers disrespectful.

While supporters of Seun argue that he is right to defend his father’s legacy, critics have described the statement as extreme and inappropriate, further fuelling the online clash.

Several public figures, fans, and commentators have since weighed in on the dispute, with opinions sharply divided. Some have called for calm and dialogue, while others have urged respect for intellectual and cultural legacy.

Despite calls for restraint, there are no clear signs of de-escalation, as exchanges between opposing sides continue to dominate social media discussions.

As of the time of filing this report, Seun Kuti has not issued a follow-up clarification, and the individual at the centre of the controversy has also remained silent.