Seun Kuti, the son of Afrobeat legend Fela Kuti, was arrested on Monday after visiting the Lagos State police commissioner, Idowu Owohunwa. This development came after Seun had promised to cooperate with the police. Accompanied by Senior Advocate of
Nigeria, Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika, Seun went to meet the police commissioner. However, instead of a cordial discussion, he was arrested and handcuffed by the police, who then took him to the State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department, Panti, for further questioning.
Benjamin Hundeyin, the spokesperson for the state police command, confirmed Seun Kuti’s arrest via a tweet, stating, “SERIOUS ASSAULT ON POLICE OFFICER: SEUN KUTI TURNS SELF IN.” Hundeyin also mentioned that Seun was in the company of his lawyer and a family representative during his visit to the police headquarters.
The arrest came in response to a viral video showing Seun assaulting a police officer during a heated argument on a busy road. Following the arrest, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Usman Alkali Baba, ordered a thorough investigation into the incident and emphasized that acts of contempt or disrespect towards authority figures would not be tolerated.
In a subsequent statement, the police spokesman, Muyiwa Adejobi, assured the public that the ongoing investigation would be comprehensive, transparent, and pursued with professionalism. He stated that justice would be served for all parties involved. Meanwhile, Seun Kuti took to his Instastory to share his side of the story.
He claimed that the officer had attempted to harm him and his family, but he chose not to press charges as the policeman had apologized. Seun expressed his willingness to cooperate with the investigation and urged the Inspector-General of Police to ensure that the guilty party faced appropriate consequences.
The arrest of Seun Kuti, a prominent musician and political activist, has sparked public interest and concern. Many are following the case closely, eager to see a fair and just resolution. The incident has also ignited debates about the appropriate use of force by law enforcement officers and the importance of accountability in such situations. As the investigation unfolds, it remains to be seen what further developments will arise and how the justice system will address the matter.
It is worth noting that Seun Kuti has been an outspoken critic of societal issues and government policies in Nigeria, carrying on the legacy of his father, Fela Kuti. His music often tackles political and social themes, advocating for the rights of the common people.
This incident involving Seun has drawn attention not only because of his celebrity status but also due to the broader implications it holds for the relationship between citizens and law enforcement in Nigeria.