The historic coronation of Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja as Ibadan’s 44th Olubadan took an unexpected turn when Fuji musician Taye Currency became the talk of social media, not for celebrating the new monarch, but for his divisive performance.
Friday’s ceremony at Mapo Hall attracted Nigeria’s political elite, including President Bola Tinubu, the Alaafin of Oyo, and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, marking a significant moment in Ibadan’s royal history.
During his inaugural speech, Oba Ladoja called on President Tinubu to prioritize Ibadan’s development ahead of the 2027 elections.
However, the new king’s message was quickly overshadowed by Taye Currency’s stage performance.
The popular Fuji artist’s songs praised Oba Ladoja while apparently taking subtle shots at other traditional rulers present, triggering heated debates across social media platforms.
Critics slammed his song choices as inappropriate for such a solemn occasion.
“What kind of nonsense song is this from Taye Currency on coronation day?” tweeted @Miraculous_011, questioning why respected Fuji legend Saheed Osupa wasn’t chosen instead.
Another user, @Ogbeniabbey, defended the artist personally but criticized the venue choice: “Taye Currency is our boy, but leave him for carnivals and street parties, not coronations. Imagine him singing ‘Werey la fin wo werey’ at such an event.”
Some social media users felt the performance resembled a political rally rather than a royal ceremony.
@Rabikeyetunde commented: “When it’s not a political campaign. You’ve started using songs to attack the opposition.”
However, supporters argued that local Ibadan residents invited the musician and he simply delivered his signature style.
“Ibadan people invited Taye Currency to the coronation, now they’re angry he’s singing,” noted @lollylarry1.
