Posted by Candace L. on 09/05/2008

This shrine is like no other. The vivid stage lights worthy of an Elvis Presley Las Vegas act replace the dull lights of a candlelit sanctuary. Tight jumpsuits, contrasting colors and prints, vibrant makeup and fedoras adorn the faithful rather than long robes and anything resembling uniformity. No Virgins here, just the Queens, a chorus line of warrior women/wives and girlfriends/singers/dancers. The scene may not lead to any religious purification, but it is holy nonetheless as Nigeria's answer to Bob Marley and James Brown comes forth to his pulpit where he preaches independence from government oppression and freedom through the African drum. He is Fela Kuti.