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Seun Kuti alleges money laundering in Nigerian music industry
Afrobeat singer Seun Kuti has made bold claims about the Nigerian music industry, suggesting that some artists may be involved in money laundering.
In a fiery video rant, Kuti voiced his frustration over the apparent wealth disparity among musicians, questioning how certain artists, with relatively small discographies, can afford extravagant lifestyles—owning hotels and driving luxury cars like G-Wagons and Rolls-Royces. “Where is the money coming from?” he asked, hinting that the source of some artists’ wealth may be questionable.
Kuti, who has had a 20-year music career, pointed to his own struggles, stating that he has only managed to build a single house, using this as evidence that the music industry alone does not generate enough income to support such lavish spending.
He also referenced Nigerian crossdresser Bobrisky’s recent legal troubles, noting that money laundering charges were dropped from the case. Kuti urged young people to critically assess the reality of the music industry and be wary of the potential involvement of some artists in illicit activities like money laundering.
“If I speak out, they’ll label it jealousy,” Kuti remarked, making it clear that his concerns go beyond personal envy. He emphasized that, while he doesn’t condone criminal behavior, he is deeply troubled by the possibility that some artists are exploiting their own communities through questionable means.
“This isn’t about being poor or rich; it’s about the game being played,” Kuti concluded.
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