Afrobeat singer Seun Kuti is in the news after a video of him pushing and slapping a police officer on Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos surfaced online. The incident sparked outrage, leading to the Inspector-General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba, ordering Seun’s arrest.
However, it is unclear what led to the altercation. The singer alleged in a statement via his Instagram stories that the officer tried to kill him and his family members. He further stated that he has proof to back up his claim. He also claimed that the officer has apologized and that he will not be pressing charges against him.
Following the IGP’s directive, some officers from the Lagos State Police command visited Seun’s Allen Avenue home to arrest him but met his absence. The officers were later asked to leave the area.
Seun, in a subsequent post on his Instagram stories, welcomed the investigation into the matter. He further added that he would give his full cooperation to the proceedings. Meanwhile, the officer he assaulted has reported to the command headquarters. He has also given his statement of what transpired between himself and the singer.
Acts of contempt for symbols of authority will not be tolerated, the IGP said. He stated this in a statement released by CSP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, spokesperson of the Nigeria Police Force. He further assured Nigerians that offenders of such hideous crimes will be brought to book.
