Veteran Fuji musician Abass Akande Obesere, popularly known as Omo Rapala, has come under fire from Nigerian Fuji music critics after a recent stage performance where he allegedly threw jabs at his contemporary, Alhaji Wasiu Alabi, famously called Oganla Fuji.
Obesere, born on January 20, 1965, in Ibadan, Oyo State, is a celebrated figure in the Fuji music scene. Known for his unique style and catchy slangs, he rose to fame by captivating fans with energetic performances. Despite his significant influence on the genre, critics now claim that Obesere’s recent remarks about Wasiu Alabi are an attempt to reclaim relevance in the highly competitive Fuji music industry.
Akeem Lawal, a Fuji music critic based in Lagos, described Obesere’s actions as desperate. “Obesere’s fame has dwindled, and this looks like a ploy to use Wasiu Alabi’s name to return to the limelight. Oganla Fuji is firmly established as the number two in the Fuji industry, right after King Wasiu Ayinde Marshall (KWAM1), and no amount of criticism can change that,” Lawal said.
Echoing this sentiment, Serah Akinkunmi, a critic from Obesere’s hometown of Ibadan, accused the musician of undermining others to revive his career. “His behavior is unbecoming of a veteran. It seems like his personal struggles have turned into a vendetta against others who are flourishing. Unfortunately, this will only damage his reputation further,” Akinkunmi remarked.
Andrew Udoh, a cross-genre music critic from Calabar, stated that Wasiu Alabi has transcended Fuji music to become a household name across all genres. “Oganla Fuji is not just a Fuji star; he is one of the few Nigerian musicians whose influence is recognized globally, regardless of genre. Obesere’s rivalry with KWAM1 is well known, but this new feud with Wasiu Alabi only highlights his declining relevance,” Udoh asserted.
Hon. Ajibola Kosoko also weighed in, emphasizing Wasiu Alabi’s enduring legacy. “Wasiu Alabi has spent four decades on stage, and that’s what Africans are celebrating. Obesere’s antics won’t overshadow this milestone. The public is focused on the achievements of musicians who uplift the industry, not those who drag it into unnecessary controversies,” he said.
Deborah Abdullah, a student from the University of Abuja, attributed Oganla Fuji’s popularity to divine grace and hard work. “Wasiu Alabi’s success is built on years of consistent performance and dedication. Anyone trying to tarnish his image is simply fighting a lost battle,” Abdullah said.
Obesere, who once enjoyed a vibrant career and even signed with Sony Music before parting ways due to payment disputes, has yet to respond to the backlash. While his contributions to Fuji music remain noteworthy, critics argue that his recent actions risk overshadowing his legacy.
As the Fuji industry continues to evolve, fans and critics alike are left wondering whether Obesere will find a way to reclaim his place among the greats without resorting to controversy.
