Prominent Nigerian music critic Akolade Ismail Bello has stirred controversy on social media by challenging Fuji artiste Alhaji Sulaiman Adekunle Alao, popularly known as Malaika, over a recent statement. Malaika claimed that while Alhaji Wasiu Alabi Pasuma (Ijoba Fuji) and Dr. Saheed Akorede Osupa (King of Music) are older than him in age, they are not his seniors in the Fuji music industry.
Bello, in a video shared on Facebook, accused Malaika of disrespecting Pasuma and Osupa, asserting that the two are far ahead of him both lyrically and in seniority within the Fuji music world. He emphasized their pivotal roles in shaping Fuji music, stating:
“Pasuma Wonder and Saheed Osupa are the pillars of Fuji music. It was during the fallout between them that younger Fuji artists like Malaika exploited the opportunity to undermine them. Now that they are reconciled, no young Fuji artiste can disrespect either of them.”
Malaika’s Birthday Message Sparks Debate
The controversy began after Malaika extended a birthday message to Pasuma on November 27, 2024, when Pasuma turned 57. In the message, Malaika reiterated his respect for Pasuma and Osupa, attributing it to their age seniority rather than professional standing. He also claimed to have started his music career in 1983, a statement that sparked backlash from fans and critics.
Several Fuji enthusiasts took to Bello’s Facebook comment section to dispute Malaika’s claims, particularly his assertion that he started his career at the age of 8.
Critics Respond
Among the many comments, a few stood out for their detailed rebuttals:
Agbaje Azeez Abiodun questioned Malaika’s credibility, saying:
“If Malaika began music in 1983 at the age of 8, can he name even one band member from that time? Pasuma, who used to call him ‘omo mi’ in the 1990s, advised him on how to structure live cassettes. Don’t claim what you are not.”
Owolabi Oladimeji recalled Malaika’s upbringing, stating:
“Malaika, who attended primary school in Agbado Crossing and used to rent bicycles as a child, is now claiming he started music in 1983. These fabrications need to stop.”
Raheem Wasiu emphasized the respect Pasuma and Osupa command, declaring:
“Malaika has no respect. Pasuma and Osupa are the undisputed pillars of Fuji music worldwide.”
Adekunle Ridwan accused Malaika of arrogance, noting:
“Pasuma was one of the artists who promoted Malaika in the 1990s. His pomposity is uncalled for.”
Kabir Gobir speculated on the impact of Pasuma and Osupa’s reconciliation, stating:
“The renewed relationship between Osupa and Pasuma is affecting the progress of other Fuji artists, including Malaika and even K1.”
Lukman Abiodun Aliu referenced Malaika’s album leaflets, asserting:
“Malaika’s first three albums clearly state he was born in 1978. His claims of starting music in 1983 are questionable.”
A History of Fuji Rivalries
Malaika’s remarks have reignited discussions on the dynamics within the Fuji music industry, especially the longstanding rivalry between Pasuma and Osupa, which shaped the genre’s evolution. Many fans believe their recent reconciliation has restored balance in the industry, leaving little room for younger artists to challenge their legacies.
As the debate rages on, it remains to be seen whether Malaika will respond to the criticisms or retract his controversial statement.
