Fuji music, a genre deeply rooted in Yoruba culture, has seen its share of turbulence, with several prominent artists experiencing attacks and violent incidents over the years. These events underscore the challenges faced by musicians in Nigeria, often stemming from security lapses, fan altercations, or disputes within the industry.
Pasuma’s Ordeal in Ikire and Beyond
2025 Ikire Convoy Attack
On Friday, May 16, 2025, renowned Nigerian Fuji musician Wasiu Alabi Pasuma and his entourage were ambushed by suspected gunmen in Ikire, Osun State. The attack occurred as Pasuma was en route to a scheduled performance in the town.
Eyewitnesses reported that the assailants hurled stones and fired gunshots at Pasuma’s convoy, which included a black Hummer Jeep adorned with his image and a white Toyota Hilux. Videos circulating on social media depicted the vehicles with shattered windshields and bullet holes. A voice, believed to be one of Pasuma’s crew members, is heard in one of the videos exclaiming in Pidgin English: “Kasala don burst for Ikire. They don attack us. They carry gun shoot us but God dey” .
Despite the severity of the attack, Pasuma and his team emerged unscathed. The artist took to his X (formerly Twitter) account to reassure fans, stating: “Myself and the entire crew are safe and sound. I appreciate everyone for reaching out. Thank you all, one love” .
Subsequently, Pasuma addressed the incident during a live performance, providing firsthand clarification to his audience. In a video shared by Legit.ng, he is seen narrating the event and later dancing to Seyi Vibez’s “Dejavu,” signaling his resilience and commitment to his craft.
The 2006 Itire Incident
In 2006, renowned Fuji artist Alabi Pasuma was attacked by hoodlums during a performance in Itire, Lagos State. The severity of the incident led him to avoid performing in the area for 18 years. His recent return in January 2024 marked a significant moment for both the artist and his fans, symbolizing resilience and reconciliation.
2013 Armed Robbery Attack
Pasuma faced another harrowing experience in May 2013 when he was ambushed by a nine-man gang near the Ahmadiyya area of Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway. The assailants hijacked his Range Rover SUV and held him and a companion hostage for over three hours before releasing them in a bush near Ota, Ogun State. The robbers made away with the vehicle and other valuables.
2007 Ojokoro Bottle Attack
In 2007, during a performance in the Ojokoro area of Lagos, Pasuma was reportedly hit with a bottle by an unknown individual in the crowd. The motive behind the attack was unclear, but it sparked panic, forcing the event to end abruptly. Pasuma sustained a minor head injury and was treated by his medical team.
Other Notable Incidents Involving Fuji Artists
Sefiu Alao’s 2013 Ifo Clash
In December 2013, Fuji musician Sefiu Alao was involved in a violent clash in Ifo, Ogun State. Thugs demanded money from him during a chieftaincy title event. When he refused, a confrontation ensued, leading to a shootout between the hoodlums and police officers. Tragically, two individuals lost their lives in the incident.
Sule Alao Malaika’s 2019 Festival Attack
During the Pako Day festival in Dopemu, Lagos, in 2019, Fuji star Sule Alao Malaika was attacked amidst a violent outbreak between rival groups. The chaos resulted in two fatalities and the destruction of Malaika’s musical equipment. The artist sustained injuries during the fracas.
Saheed Osupa
- There have been several reports of attacks and threats orchestrated against Osupa, especially during periods of intense rivalry within the Fuji music scene.
- One notable incident involved an orchestrated disruption of his concerts, where hired troublemakers caused chaos and fights to destabilize his shows and damage his reputation. This was widely believed to be connected to rival factions within Fuji music battling for supremacy.
- In some instances, Osupa himself has alleged plots to physically harm him by unknown assailants sent by competitors.
King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (Kwam 1)
- Kwam 1 has been the target of coordinated attacks and sabotage attempts, particularly during his peak career years and ongoing rivalry with other Fuji stars.
- There have been reports of organized disruptions at his events where groups were hired to provoke violence or sabotage performances.
- Some sources mention physical threats and intimidation attempts linked to the competitive Fuji industry, aimed at undermining Kwam 1’s dominance
Ayinla Kollington
- As one of the pioneers of Fuji music, Kollington has faced orchestrated attacks primarily in the form of sabotage and rivalry-driven interference in his music events.
- While physical assaults were less publicized, there were incidents where groups were mobilized to disrupt his concerts and cause unrest, reflecting the fierce competition between Fuji camps.
The conflicts sometimes escalated to threats against Kollington’s personal safety, believed to be orchestrated by rivals.
Analysis: The Underlying Issues
These incidents reflect broader challenges within Nigeria’s entertainment industry:
Security Concerns: Artists often perform in environments lacking adequate security, making them vulnerable to attacks.
Fan and Community Relations: Disputes with fans or local groups can escalate quickly, especially when expectations around performances or financial “settlements” are unmet.
Industry Rivalries: Personal and professional rivalries among artists can sometimes lead to confrontations, both on and off stage.
Industry and Government Response
Following the Ikire attack and past incidents, calls have intensified for stronger security measures at music events. Industry stakeholders, including Fuji music associations and event organizers, have urged the government to provide adequate protection for artists.
The Osun State government condemned the recent attack and pledged to enhance security for future cultural events.
Leave a comment