Renowned fuji musician Abass Akande, popularly known as Obesere, was reportedly attacked by suspected thugs on Friday during a burial ceremony in Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State.

The incident occurred at the Government Field, Okitipupa, where the veteran singer and his band were billed to perform. Witnesses say the attackers stormed the event unexpectedly, disrupting the performance and sending guests fleeing.

Bosede Akinyemi, who attended the ceremony, described the scene as chaotic and frightening.

“It was a very shameful act. They attacked Obesere and his band while they were entertaining guests,” she said.

According to her, some band members were assaulted, while musical instruments worth millions of naira were vandalised. One band member was allegedly stabbed while attempting to stop the attack.

Efforts to reach Obesere for comments were unsuccessful as of press time.

However, the Chairman of Okitipupa LGA, Hon. Andrew Ogunsakin, condemned the incident, calling it “unfortunate and unacceptable.” He stressed that the violent act does not represent the values of the Ikale people and assured that measures will be taken to prevent a recurrence.

“This incident is unacceptable and does not reflect the values we uphold as a people. Necessary steps will be taken to address this matter and prevent future occurrences,” he said, adding that he would personally reach out to Obesere and his team to offer apologies.

Opinion — When Violence Hijacks Celebration, Culture Loses

This shouldn’t just be another headline—it should be a wake-up call.

Obesere isn’t just a performer; he is a cultural figure whose music has travelled across generations. To see him and his team assaulted while simply doing their job reflects a deeper social problem—one where thuggery continues to thrive at public events without fear of consequences.

A burial ceremony, a place meant for respect, remembrance and communal bonding, suddenly became a battleground. That isn’t just embarrassing—it's dangerous.

Entertainment is part of Nigeria’s cultural heritage. Musicians, comedians, actors and creatives should feel safe carrying their craft into communities. If artists begin to fear performing at social functions, then culture suffers, tourism suffers, the economy suffers—and society becomes colder.

The swift condemnation from the LGA chairman is commendable, but apologies alone are not enough. Accountability must follow. Arrests must be made. Event organisers must prioritise security. Communities must reject violence—not just in words, but in action.

Because celebrations should leave people with memories—not injuries.

And for a respected icon like Obesere, Nigeria owes better.