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Seun Kuti wants to know why footballers earn more than essential workers
Nigerian musician Seun Kuti recently questioned why footballers are paid so much compared to essential workers like doctors, nurses, and teachers.
During an Instagram livestream, Kuti expressed disbelief at the disparity in earnings, highlighting that athletes make millions for playing a game while those in crucial professions receive far less.
He stated, “Footballers are paid millions just to chase a ball around a field. For the amount of money they are paid, they should be playing every day. Personally, I know boys who aren’t paid a dime yet they play on the field every day.”
Kuti emphasized the value of essential workers, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, when nurses, doctors, and other vital employees continued to work despite the risks.
He contrasted this with the non-essential nature of football and sports, stating, “During the pandemic, there was no football. Did anything happen to anybody when we didn’t watch football? It is not essential. If nurses in the world stop working now, as there is no COVID, do you think this world will continue?”
He further questioned the fairness of the system, suggesting that even football players might realize their pay is disproportionate to their contribution. Kuti concluded by criticizing the prioritization of entertainment over essential services, noting how many essential workers lost their lives during the pandemic while sports stars continued to earn millions.
In his view, the world’s allocation of wealth shows a lack of sense and fairness, with essential workers undervalued despite their critical role in society.
Watch him speak below:
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