Seun Kuti, the youngest son of the legendary Afrobeat pioneer, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, has shared his thoughts on the new Nigerian President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the nature of their relationship.
During a recent interview with media personality Chude Jideonwo, Seun Kuti delved into his connection with the President.
Seun Kuti fondly referred to Tinubu as his political mentor and highlighted his significant role in championing democracy in Nigeria.
He reminisced about Tinubu’s involvement in the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), a group that vigorously campaigned for democracy in Nigeria after the military annulled Chief MKO Abiola’s presumed victory in the June 12, 1993 presidential election.
Seun Kuti stressed the close bond he shares with the President, often calling him his uncle, and how Tinubu had mentored him during his formative years.
However, Seun Kuti also acknowledged that, despite his respect for Tinubu, he believes that the President’s performance has been lacking since assuming office.
In his words:
“My relationship with President Tinubu on a personal level is very robust. I grew up knowing him as an uncle. He was a very good friend of uncle Beko . He was a political mentor to me growing up as a child.
“Many of the ideas that I understand today, it was these men that taught me as a child growing up. Knowing them fighting for democracy in this country with NADECO, even when he went on exile… Wale Soyinka, uncle Beko, Asiwaju, these were the men who fought for our democracy.
During Tinubu’s first term as Governor of Lagos State, I performed at all his rallies. I’ve always been close to him personally. But I don’t have any political relationship with him. And even at that, I don’t think it’s anybody’s business. I’ve not been to his house in years except when I need to see him for national issues.
“So, these things that people say are just to tarnish your image. They make it seem like everybody must be paid for what they’re saying. No, no, no. What’s the truth is the truth. And I say it regardless of fear or favour of anybody.”
