By Bilesanmi Abayomi
In response to the recent allegations made by Kunle Ayanlowo, one of the drummers of renowned Fuji maestro King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as KWAM1, instrumentalists across the music industry are urging for the formation of a union to protect their rights and welfare.
Ayanlowo, in a candid interview, revealed his grievances, alleging mistreatment and exploitation during his 32-year tenure working with KWAM1. He claimed that despite his long service, he achieved nothing and lived in fear throughout his time with the maestro. Ayanlowo further disclosed instances where KWAM1 allegedly seized and held their passports upon their return to Nigeria, exerting control and dominance over their lives.
Reacting to Ayanlowo’s revelations, Hammed Hammed Babatunde acknowledged that such lamentations have persisted for a long time, resonating with many instrumentalists who have faced similar mistreatment. Babatunde emphasized the need for instrumentalists to organize themselves into a union, proposing the establishment of the “National Association of Nigeria Music Instrumentalists” to safeguard their rights, interests, and welfare.
Babatunde stressed that without a formal association backed by law, instrumentalists are vulnerable to exploitation and abuse, highlighting the importance of collective bargaining and advocacy for their profession. He encouraged instrumentalists to stand united and resilient against any opposition they may face from artists or industry stakeholders, emphasizing that they outnumber musicians and possess collective strength.