Afrobeat singer and son of legendary musician Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, Seun Kuti has been bestowed with a unique title. He is currently in custody at the State Criminal, Investigations and Intelligence Department (SCIID) in Panti, Yaba, Lagos after the altercation with a police officer. In an unexpected turn of events, the inmates of his cell have crowned him the ‘General Overseer’. They presented him with a Holy Bible as a symbol of his new role. However, the initial acceptance of Seun’s appointment did not come without some resistance.
According to Vanguard, upon Seun’s arrival in the cell alongside other suspected criminals, he faced opposition from the inmates. The leader of the inmates, in a commanding baritone voice, instructed Seun to stand. This sparked a crisis as the inmates vociferously demanded his removal from the cell, pounding on the metal protective door.
Seun, seeking to defuse the situation, began negotiations for peace.
Realizing that the commotion caused by his presence went unnoticed by the guards, he reportedly promised to provide the inmates with ₦25,000. To fulfil his promise, he had to borrow a phone to contact his wife, who promptly brought the money. Once the cash was handed over to their leader, the inmates reluctantly accepted Seun. They also allegedly allocated him a place to sit.
Infuriated by the tumultuous events, Seun Kuti refused to eat the food provided, including meals brought by his wife, embarking on a hunger strike that lasted for nearly a day and a half. Eventually, hunger compelled him to resume eating.
The climax of the unfolding drama came when the inmates crowned him as the “General Overseer” of the cell, presenting him with a Bible. Seun Kuti now leads prayer sessions for the inmates when necessary, and they respond with a resounding chorus of “GO, GO.”
Sources indicate that Seun has received visits from his elder brother, Femi, other family members, lawyers, and friends. Additionally, during a recent encounter, Seun tightly clutched the Bible while ascending the stairs leading to the office of Deputy Commissioner of Police, Waheed Ayilara. Shortly after, he descended the stairs and returned to his cell.
The unusual circumstances surrounding Seun Kuti’s detention have captivated public attention. It is also shedding light on the realities faced by those incarcerated. As well as the unexpected dynamics that can unfold within prison walls. As the situation continues to evolve, the support of family, legal representation and friends remains crucial for Seun Kuti.
