Nigerian hip-hop legend Eedris Abdulkareem has stirred up controversy by taking a swipe at Afrobeat star Burna Boy and his self-proclaimed titles of ‘African Giant’ and ‘Odogwu’. In a viral video, Abdulkareem argued that Davido is more deserving of these titles than Burna Boy, because of his achievements and impact on society.
Abdulkareem, who is known for his outspoken and often controversial views, accused Burna Boy of being arrogant and disrespectful to his seniors in the industry. He said, “You’re not behaving like an African person; you’re behaving like a (caption this). Please take it easy, dude. Wetin happen?”
He went on to compare Burna Boy with Davido and Wizkid, who he said have been there before him and have done more for the Nigerian music scene. He said, “Davido has been there before you; Wizkid has been there before you; a lot of people have been there before you. You’re not a giant; you’re not the giant of Africa.”
He then declared that Davido is the real Odogwu, which means ‘great man’ or ‘leader’ in Igbo language. He said, “You never reach Odogwu; na Davido be Odogwu. Na Eedris Abdulkareem I be, na me dey talk the truth, even if you like am or not.”
Eedris praised Davido for his generosity, humility, and collaboration with other artists. He said, “Na Davido be the only Odogwu wey we know because he has added value to the lives of people, and he’s not trying to take anybody’s shine.”
“Burna Boy, you never reach Odogwu. Na Davido be Odogwu, I no know you”
– Eedris Abdulkareem (2020)
— 🐬 @𝗼𝗻𝗲𝗷𝗼𝗯𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗯𝗼𝘆 (@OneJoblessBoy) February 17, 2024
Abdulkareem’s video has sparked mixed reactions from fans and critics, with some agreeing with his opinion and others defending Burna Boy. Some also questioned Abdulkareem’s relevance and motive for making such statements.
