The Olu of Kemta Orile in Odeda Local Government Area of Ogun State, Oba Adetokunbo Tejuosho, has taken a swipe at Fuji musician Taye Akande Adebisi, popularly known as Taye Currency, over what he described as “classless and unbefitting lyrics” rendered during the coronation of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, on Friday.

A viral video from the event showed the artiste singing a controversial Yoruba line, “Were la fi n wo were” – loosely translated as “we cure madness with madness.”

In a statement issued on Saturday, Oba Tejuosho said the lyrics fell short of the dignity required for such a historic and sacred occasion, which drew top dignitaries including President Bola Tinubu.

“The throne of our ancestors is not a stage for mockery, nor the coronation of a great monarch a subject for careless entertainment,” the monarch declared.

“Kingship is sacred, adorned with honour and guarded by tradition. It demands reverence, dignity, class, and utmost respect from all who stand in its presence. Listening to the musician, who was invited to perform before the Crown, and indeed before the entire world, render such a song was an insult to the sacredness of the gathering.”

Oba Tejuosho argued that the coronation of Oba Ladoja ought to have been graced by music that elevated the moment, not diminished it. He suggested that veteran artistes such as King Sunny Ade, Ebenezer Obey, or Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (K1 De Ultimate) would have brought greater prestige, while other calmer Yoruba musicians, including Rasheed Ayinde (Merenge), could also have represented the cultural heritage of Oyo State appropriately.

“No wonder people invest heavily in having the likes of King Sunny Ade, Commander Ebenezer Obey, or Alhaji Wasiu Ayinde at the bandstand to promote their image with dignity,” he added. “If Oyo State had wanted to promote their own, the likes of Rasheed Ayinde and other suitable artistes would have been more appropriate for such an occasion.”

The remarks have since stirred debate online, with some defending Taye Currency as a Fuji artiste who often employs raw street expressions in his craft, while others echoed the monarch’s view that certain lyrics should have no place at an event as revered as the coronation of an Olubadan.