The Olu of Kemta Orile in Odeda Local Government Area of Ogun State, Oba Adetokunbo Tejuosho, has strongly criticized Fuji star Taye Currency over what he described as “disgusting and uncultured lyrics” rendered during the installation of Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadan, Oyo State, on Friday.
In a viral clip that has continued to stir public outrage, the musician was heard singing in Yoruba, “Were la fi n wo were,” which translates to “we cure madness with madness.”
In a statement issued on Saturday, Oba Tejuosho faulted Taye Currency for what he called a display of careless entertainment and vanity, stressing that the coronation of a monarch is a sacred cultural rite that deserves absolute respect.
According to the royal father, “The throne of our ancestors is not a stage for mockery, nor the coronation of a great monarch a subject for careless entertainment.
“Kingship is sacred, adorned with honor and guarded by tradition. It demands reverence, dignity, honor, class and the utmost respect from all who stand in its presence.
“Listening to the musician (Taye Currency), who was invited to render music before the Crown, as a matter of fact before the entire world, to serenade the audience and sing in a way to express admiration, singing songs like (were lafi n wo were) We use madness to cure madness.
“Such lyrics were classless and unbefitting of such occasion, it is insulting to the sacredness of the gathering.”
Highlighting the significance of the event, Oba Tejuosho noted that the newly installed monarch, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, is widely regarded as the first Nigerian to serve as a senator, a governor, and now a king.
He pointed out that the ceremony attracted top dignitaries, including political leaders, ambassadors, and royals from diverse backgrounds.
“Such conduct and lines of music was unfit and unacceptable in the presence of the entire world, music in the royal court is not mere noise, but an offering of homage to history, culture, and authority.
“It is of utmost importance to state it clearly that before the throne, words must carry weight, rhythm must uphold respect, and melody must be a vessel of honor, (Sekere loba njo).
“To do otherwise is to stain the dignity of our heritage and diminish oneself before the people. The sanctity of the crown remains untouchable. Those who approach it must do so with wisdom, restraint, and profound respect.”
He further questioned the choice of Taye Currency as the artiste for such a high-profile coronation, especially given the presence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other prominent figures.
“Doing a deep thinking will make one queries the reason of the organizers presenting such individual to represent an event of such magnitude, especially with presence of dignitaries such as His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu (Gcfr) the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“No wonder people invest so huge in having the likes of King Sunny Ade, Commander Ebenezer Obey or Alh Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (K1 d ultimate) at the band stand to duly represent and promote their images.
“And if Oyo State had wanted to promote their own, the likes of Alh Rasheed Ayinde (Merenge) and other calm artistes would have been an appropriate selection for an event like this.”
