Nigerian dancer Korra Obidi is making headlines after sharing a video of herself paying tribute to Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo-Kuti by twerking on his grave. Posted on Instagram on Saturday, the video quickly went viral, dividing opinions between artistic expression and perceived disrespect.
A Tribute “In Fela’s Spirit,” According to Korra Obidi
In the video, Obidi explains that her intention was to honor Fela through one of the artistic expressions he appreciated most: the movement of the female body.
“We all know Fela loved women with gyrating hips, so I wanted to pay him homage. I decided to shake it for Baba. Seun was very happy,” she said.
She added that the gesture aligns with the bold and free-spirited personality of the Afrobeat pioneer:
“You know what Baba likes, but nobody gives him what he wants. Baba, here’s a little twerk for you. Your legacy lives on. We love you.”
The visit took place alongside singer Teni, who is currently learning to play the saxophone.
Seun Kuti Present and Supportive of the Tribute
The video also features Seun Kuti, one of Fela’s sons, who appears pleased with the tribute, saying:
“From Paris to Lagos.”
He also performs a small ritual by pouring alcohol on the grave and offering some to Obidi.
According to the dancer, Seun appreciated the gesture, seeing it as perfectly aligned with his father’s cultural influence and vibrant lifestyle.
A Divisive Tribute: Respect or Disrespect?
While some applauded Korra Obidi’s boldness, many condemned the act as disrespectful.
On X (formerly Twitter), Paul Kachi strongly criticized the gesture:
“Twerking on Fela’s grave is wild behavior. No respect for legends anymore? There’s a fine line between tribute and disrespect, and this one crossed it.”
Others highlighted the sacredness of burial sites:
“Dancing on a grave? Mocking the dead and disrespecting the Hereafter? This is why graves shouldn’t be places of arrogance,” wrote #UK_Moyi.
Another user, #_nazatrades, added:
“Respect for the dead still matters, no matter the excuse.”
These reactions reflect a segment of the public that insists cultural values and reverence for ancestors should guide tributes, regardless of artistic intention.
Supporters Say “Fela Would Have Loved It”
Others believe Fela himself would have embraced such an energetic tribute.
“Funny thing is that Fela would probably have loved something like this,” wrote Bzrk.
Àiná Òrósùn added:
“Fela would have loved her.”
Another user, Alákòwé, praised Seun Kuti’s composed response:
“I don’t care what anyone says! Seun is so articulate—he’s a proper African man! The schnapps ritual made me see him differently.
Many will call him a traditionalist, but Seun, who is neither Christian nor Muslim, truly carries Fela’s legacy.”
On Instagram, Obasogie Priscilla Tobiloba summed it up succinctly:
“This is tradition.”
Fela Kuti: A Cultural Icon Still Celebrated
Fela Kuti, who died on August 2, 1997, remains a major cultural figure, celebrated for his rebellious spirit, political activism, and unconventional lifestyle.
In 1978, he famously married 27 women in a single day in a traditional Yoruba ceremony, a testament to his commitment to African customs and the protection of his band members from stigma.
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