Born Olufela Oludotun Ransome-Kuti in 1938, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti became undoubtedly Nigeria's greatest music icon and social export. His musical genre - Afrobeat, he evolved by fusing influences from Highlife, Jazz, R&B and pain from many years of military oppression in Nigeria. Fela passed away on August 2nd, 1997 and over a million people attended his funeral.
Fela's life and music remains a major source of influence to current musicians, activists, and the oppressed public today. He is celebrated worldwide and annually the Felabration festival holds in many cities across the globe. It is however paradoxical that the authorities in Nigeria instituted a veiled war on Fela for years now; placing and embargo on airplay of his music and blackmailing Corporate sponsorship of his celebration.
'FREE FELA!' is set against the backdrop of Felabration @Freedom Park and explores Fela's recurrent influence on our society.

A film by Deji Ajose-Ojikutu

Nigeria, 2017, Documentary, 45 mins

Directed and produced by Deji Ajose-Ojikutu
Executive Producer: Theo Lawson


2017 | 6th IREP, Lagos
* Opening day
* World Premiere
http://irepfilmfestival.com/