Lagos-based journalist Mr. Taofik Afolabi has voiced strong opinions on the backlash surrounding Fuji musician Taye Currency’s performance at the coronation of Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, which took place on Friday, September 26, 2025. In a candid reflection shared late Friday evening, Afolabi described the Ibadan-born artist’s set as a disappointing misstep during a culturally significant event, igniting discussions among fans and cultural observers.

According to Afolabi, the criticism began almost immediately after the coronation ceremony at Mapo Hall, where Alhaji Taye Akande Adebisi, known as Taye Currency, performed as a guest artist. The journalist highlighted the public’s dismay, particularly over the song “Were la fi wo n were” (meaning “we use madness to counter madness”), which many deemed inappropriate for the occasion. “The general sentiment was that Apesin delivered a performance far below expectations, and his choice of songs did not align with the grandeur and cultural significance of such a historic occasion,” Afolabi noted.

 

The backlash has been swift, with social media platforms buzzing with reactions. Some quarters have argued that Alhaji Saidi Osupa Akorede, a veteran Fuji musician with a reputation for culturally resonant performances, would have been a more fitting choice, given his deep understanding of Yoruba musical traditions.

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Afolabi offered a nuanced perspective, acknowledging that Taye Currency began on a high note. “He started off well,” the journalist wrote, describing how the musician initially performed traditional Ibadan-originated songs that complemented the ceremony’s mood. He observed that His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, appeared pleased, smiling and waving his irukere (royal horsetail whisk) in approval during the early part of the performance.

However, the tone shifted dramatically. Afolabi criticized the subsequent song selections, labeling them as “poorly suited for the dignified and culturally rich atmosphere of the coronation.” He referred to Taye Currency as “Baba Honourable” in a sarcastic nod to the artist’s stumble, suggesting that the performance devolved into a mismatch with the event’s expectations.

 

In his analysis, Afolabi urged Taye Currency to reflect on the incident. “This should serve as a big lesson for him: every event has its own tone, expectation, and audience—and the music must reflect that,” he wrote. The journalist concluded with a firm stance, stating, “Frankly speaking, Taye Currency dropped the ball. He needs to recalibrate and do better at future prestigious events.”

The critique has resonated with some who agree that the performance failed to honor the solemnity of the coronation, while others defend Taye Currency, arguing that his selection as a “son of the soil” was a deliberate choice by the organizing committee to celebrate local talent.

 

Context and Cultural Significance

The coronation of Oba Ladoja, a former Oyo State governor, marked a historic moment for Ibadan, drawing dignitaries, traditional rulers, and thousands of residents to Mapo Hall. The event, preceded by week-long celebrations including prayers and cultural performances, aimed to celebrate Ibadan’s heritage. Taye Currency’s performance, intended to entertain and honor the new Olubadan, instead became a focal point of controversy, overshadowing other highlights like Governor Seyi Makinde’s address and the presence of national leaders.

 

Why This Matters

The backlash reflects broader debates about the role of music in cultural ceremonies and the expectations placed on artists to align with tradition. It also raises questions about event planning and the selection of performers for occasions of such stature, potentially influencing future decisions by Ibadan’s cultural organizers.