Many know about Fela Kuti’s infamous 1978 wedding, where he married 27 wives in Lagos, but fewer know the story of his first wife, Remilekun Anikulapo-Kuti, and her pivotal role in his life and legacy.
Now, 23 years after her passing, her story is finally being told in a newly released memoir. Titled Mrs. Kuti, the book was unveiled on Monday at an exclusive launch at Ouida House in Opebi.
The book sheds light on Remilekun’s simple yet extraordinary life and her position as the matriarch and backbone of the Kuti family.
Monday’s book launch kicked off with a special performance by Remilekun’s grandson, Made Kuti, and was followed by a one-minute silence to honour the book’s late author.
From the playful banter between Remilekun’s son, the legendary Afrobeat star Femi Kuti, and her daughter, Yeni Kuti during a panel discussion where Yeni cheekily called him a “Mummy’s boy” — to a heartwarming letter from Remilekun’s proud sister Sonia, who expressed joy at the book’s publication, the evening was filled with deep emotion.
One particularly touching moment was the tearful tribute from Remilekun’s eldest granddaughter, Rolari Jacka, who recalled the pain of stolen chapters that detailed Remilekun’s journey as a mother of three. The final heartfelt tribute came from Sandra Oyewole, who described her as a woman with unwavering devotion to Fela, honouring her marriage vows with profound seriousness.
One word echoed throughout the evening: kind. Everyone who knew Remilekun remembered her as a kind, honest, and down-to-earth woman who instilled strong moral values in her children.
The launch of Mrs. Kuti was more than just a book unveiling; it was a heartfelt tribute to a woman whose influence shaped the Kuti legacy and left an indelible mark on African culture.
Through the performances, tributes, book reading and shared memories, Remilekun Anikulapo-Kuti was remembered as a devoted wife, mother, and matriarch whose kindness and strength resonated with everyone she touched.
As her story now reaches the world through the pages of Mrs. Kuti, it serves as a reminder of her pivotal role in supporting one of Africa’s most iconic figures while standing firm as an inspiring figure in her own right.
Copies of Mrs. Kuti are available at www.ouidabooks.com or can be purchased directly at the Ouida Bookstore in Opebi.
