Korra Obidi Sparks Outrage and Praise After Twerking at Fela Kuti’s Grave

Nigerian dancer and social media personality Korra Obidi has stirred intense debate after sharing a video of herself twerking at the gravesite of Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti. The act, which she described as a “homage,” has split public opinion across social media.

In the video posted on Saturday, Obidi explained that the performance was inspired by Fela’s well-known admiration for vibrant dance and expressive women.

“We all know that one thing Fela loved was a woman with gyrating hips, so I decided to pay Baba a homage… this is a little twerk for you. Your legacy lives on,” she said.

The visit also featured singer Teni and Fela’s son, Seun Kuti, who appeared supportive of the tribute. Seun performed a brief ritual at the gravesite, sprinkling alcohol and sharing it with Obidi. “From Paris to Lagos,” he said in the footage, while Obidi added that he joked about seeing her in his dream.

However, Obidi’s gesture quickly ignited controversy. Many critics argued that dancing on a grave—regardless of intention—crossed cultural and spiritual boundaries.

“Twerking on Fela’s grave is wild behaviour. Respect for legends no dey again?” X user Paul Kachi wrote. Another user, #UK_Moyi, condemned the act as “mocking the dead,” stressing the cultural sanctity of burial grounds. Others echoed the sentiment, urging respect for the deceased.

Yet not everyone disapproved. Some praised the tribute as a lively and fitting reflection of Fela’s bold personality. “Funny thing is that Fela would probably have loved some shit like this,” one user commented. Another added, “Fela would have loved her.”

Several commenters also highlighted Seun Kuti’s calm acceptance of the gesture. “Seun is just too articulate… he truly carries Fela’s legacy,” one post read.

Fela Kuti, who died on 2 August 1997, was famous for his unapologetic cultural expression and flamboyant lifestyle, including his widely reported 1978 mass wedding to 27 women in a traditional Yoruba ceremony.

Obidi’s tribute continues to spark heated reactions online, reflecting Nigeria’s ongoing debate over culture, spirituality, and creative expression.