Kwam 1's saxophonist apologizes for 'unnecessary pregnancy' song controversy

Olawale Adekoya, saxophonist for Nigerian Fuji music star Wasiu Ayinde, known as Kwam 1, has issued an apology over remarks made by his principal concerning an alleged baby mama, Ogechi Eleana, and her daughter.

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On this particular day that the incident happened, I won’t lie to you, from the beginning of that show, Alhaji was in a very good mood with the band. Everybody was happy; he was dashing us money, so everybody was excited. It was an endless fun moment for us when the beats came up again during the exciting moment.

Kwam 1 faced criticism after describing a pregnancy that resulted in the birth of his 12-year-old daughter, Azizat, as an "unnecessary and free gift." He made these comments during a performance while responding to accusations of neglecting his responsibilities toward Azizat. The remarks sparked significant backlash online.

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I told Alhaji that this is the interpretation of the beats now. So out of that excitement, he was really shocked, and to be honest, this is why I’m making this video, because Alhaji knew nothing about this. He was not involved in the interpretation; he never told us anything, and he didn’t put any words in our mouths. So that was why he was really shocked.

In a video posted on TikTok, Adekoya accepted full responsibility for the controversy surrounding the "unnecessary pregnancy" song. He clarified that the drum rhythm, known as alujo, which many associated with the paternity dispute, was interpreted by the band during a moment of shared excitement. Adekoya stated that Kwam 1 was unaware of this interpretation and had not prompted any specific words or meanings.

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We were not laughing because of the mother and the daughter. We were not referring to anybody. It was just a fun moment. It was totally harmless and not intentional. So that’s why I’m making this video to apologise and take full responsibility for whatever happened that day.

"He was not involved in the interpretation; he never told us anything, and he didn’t put any words in our mouths," Adekoya said. He explained that the rhythm had been part of their repertoire for years, with band members recently adding playful interpretations. Adekoya insisted the interpretation was spontaneous, harmless, and not intended to offend anyone, including Ms. Eleana or Azizat. He apologized on behalf of the band to all who were disappointed.

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Whatever reactions we’re getting online now are expected because it happened at a very sensitive period, and we are very sorry about it on behalf of the percussionist and the whole band. We are very sorry about it, and to everyone who was also disappointed, please, we are very sorry