Renowned human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, confirmed on Sunday that he would be representing Afrobeat musician Seun Kuti, who recently assaulted a police officer. Falana stated that Kuti has provided him with sufficient evidence to support his case and that he has dealt with the police on previous occasions.
The incident sparked speculations when a team of police officers failed to locate Kuti at his residence for his arrest. Efforts to verify this information with the police authorities proved unsuccessful, as the Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer could not be reached for comment. Falana assured that Kuti would turn himself in on Monday, stating that there were no issues at hand.
The incident gained attention after a video went viral, showing Kuti assaulting a police officer on the Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos State. Consequently, the Inspector-General of Police, Usman Baba, ordered the immediate arrest of the musician. The IG further directed a comprehensive investigation into the alleged assault and called for the suspect’s prosecution.
In a social media post obtained by our correspondent, Kuti claimed that the police officer in question had attempted to murder him and his family. However, in a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adéjọbí, the IG’s directive was made clear.
The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, was mandated to carry out the arrest, investigation, and subsequent prosecution of Seun Kuti. The statement emphasized that acts of contempt or disrespect towards symbols of authority would not be tolerated, and the perpetrators would face legal consequences.
Subsequently, Kuti posted on Instagram, revealing that the police officer had apologized for the alleged murder attempt against him and his family. Kuti acknowledged the apology and declared that he would not press charges, adding that he was not seeking attention.
However, following the IG’s order for his arrest, Kuti posted again on Instagram, welcoming the investigation and expressing his willingness to cooperate fully. He also expressed his hope that the investigation would hold the responsible party accountable.