The Stephen Lawrence Centre in South London suddenly transformed to a mini-Afrikan Shrine on Saturday(Oct 13,2018) as fans, associates and friends of the Afrobeat Legend, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti came out to celebrate his posthumous 80th birthday.
Lola Oteh-Cole electrified the whole atmosphere with her brilliant performance of Zombie and Unknown Soldier. She received more than three standing ovations from the audience. (Thank you, Lola!)
Segun Ogedengbe, former Fela’s saxophonist also performed evergreen Fela tracks like VIP, Zombie, Water No Get Enemy and Palaver from his sax to display his true linkage with the Abami Eda of the Universe.
Kunle Kuti(Fela’s son), Director of Fela Kuti Museum in Lagos expressed his sincere gratitude to organisers and guests of Felabration2018 in London via video calls.
The organiser of the event, Barrister Bob Olukoya, CEO/MD of I-YESS SPORTS, said there is a constant need to celebrate our icons and distinguished citizens of Africa and Fela Anikulapo-Kuti is among the African legends.
Olukoya also recognised the co-sponsors of the FELABRATION2018 in London and later gave out some awards to distinguished personalities.
Christine Roseje Shuaibu also interviewed some guests on the red carpet during the Felabration2018 in London.
Bilah Fawaz, London-based Nigerian boxer who was nearly deported back to Nigeria due to Home Office’s administrative error also attended the event to honour Fela Anikulapo-Kuti.
Fawaz said he developed his musical talents while locked up in UK Immigration detention centre and also sang some of his unreleased tracks to entertain the guests at FELABRATION2018 in London.
Fawaz inspired the audience never to give up to achieve their dreams in life no matter the barriers in front of them. He gave personal examples from his family background and his struggles to fight against deportation to Nigeria, the African country he once fought against as a young boxer while representing ENGLAND.
