Wasiu Ayinde, the ace singer better known as Kwam 1, says he played a pivotal role in officially establishing Fuji music as a recognised genre in Nigeria.
In a recent interview with Bamidele Adeyanju, Kwam 1 revealed that he facilitated the registration of the Fuji Musicians Association of Nigeria (FUMAN) with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).
The 68-year-old also disclosed that he personally sponsored the drafting of the association’s constitution.
Kwam 1, however, lamented that despite his contributions, he continues to face criticism from within the industry.
“My Fuji was not supposed to become something controversial. When I had the chance to put my name on Fuji during registration, I did not do so. I registered Fuji in Nigeria. I registered it as the Fuji Musicians Association of Nigeria (FUMAN). The title of our genre of music is Fuji. I registered it with the Corporate Affairs Commission,” he said.
“I drafted the constitution. I single-handedly volunteered. The constitution was written in my house. I selected a constitutional drafting committee — Fasaye Alao, Muhideen Asekun, Raji Akangbe as interim president, Kolotiti, who was my personal secretary, was the one typing. They were having meetings at my house. And the meetings were held in the presence of my lawyer.
“God used me to do many things. What did you pay me back with? Whatever they are doing is spoiling the image of Fuji.”
‘WHY I AM ANGRY WITH KOLLINGTON’
The Fuji icon also addressed his strained relationship with fellow singer Kollington Ayinla.
Kwam 1 expressed his disappointment over Kollington’s “failure to offer condolences” after the death of his mother.
“What I said about Alhaji Kollington was not an insult to him. It was my right to say your mother died and I supported you. How do you feel about not talking to me that ‘Wasiu, sorry for the loss of your mother. Here is my condolences. I want to see who would come to me and say what I am angry about is not worth it,” he said.
“And the flimsy excuse you gave was that you called me, but I did not pick up your call. You did not call me when your mother died. You practically told me as I stood by Sikiru when he lost his mother I should do the same for you.
“You demanded it as a right, and I discharged. When will it be my turn? And you are saying I should not be angry.”
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