Fuji star Taye Currency has dominated social media conversations after his performance at the coronation of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, at Mapo Hall on Friday.
During his set, he delivered the Yoruba phrase “Wèrè la fi n wò wèrè” — literally “madness is treated with madness” — a line that sparked outrage among many Nigerians, especially Yoruba indigenes. Critics argued that such lyrics were inappropriate for a royal event graced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, state governors, ministers, traditional rulers, and other high-profile guests.
One of the harshest criticisms came from Oba Adetokunbo Tejuosho, the Olu of Kemta Orile in Ogun State. He said the performance fell short of the dignity expected at a coronation.
“A throne represents the honor of our ancestors and must never be turned into a stage for ridicule,” the monarch said. “Kingship is sacred. It demands reverence, decorum, and respect from anyone privileged to perform before it. Singing about curing madness with madness at such a gathering was insulting to the sacredness of the occasion.”
Although Taye Currency has long been popular among Fuji enthusiasts in Ibadan, the controversy has triggered fresh curiosity about his personal and professional life. Here are five key things to know about him:
1. Full Name and Age
Taye Currency’s real name is Taye Akande Adebisi, though fans also call him Apesin. He marked his 50th birthday on December 17, 2024.
2. Political Appointment
In 2019, Governor Seyi Makinde appointed him Special Adviser on Culture and Tourism during his first term in office.
3. Father of a Lawmaker
His son, Yusuf Oladeni Adebisi, won a seat in the Oyo State House of Assembly in 2019 to represent Ibadan South-West Constituency 1. The achievement earned Taye the nickname “Baba Honourable”. Yusuf secured re-election in 2023 on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
4. Financial Loss
In April 2025, the musician revealed he had lost ₦10 million to CBEX, a cryptocurrency/investment platform now widely described as a collapsed Ponzi scheme. He said he had been convinced to invest by close associates before the scheme folded.
5. Link to Pasuma
Although he insists he never learned Fuji music directly from Wasiu Alabi Odetola (Pasuma) — whom he first met in 1993 — Taye Currency still publicly acknowledges him as a senior figure in the genre.
This mix of royal controversy and personal milestones has kept Taye Currency firmly in the public eye, cementing his reputation as one of Ibadan’s most talked-about Fuji artistes.
