Seun Kuti arrested, handcuffed for slapping police officer in uniform

Afrobeat musician Seun Kuti on Monday morning turned himself in after the Inspector General of Police Usman Baba ordered his arrest for slapping a police officer in uniform.

After visiting the commissioner of police, Seun was arrested, handcuffed and taken to the state CID in Panti, Yaba for investigation.

Lagos police spokesman Benjamin Hundeyin tweeted photos of the singer and said he has been placed under arrest.

“Afrobeat musician, Seun Kuti, in the early hours of today turned himself in at the Lagos State Police Command Headquarters, Ikeja, in company of his lawyer and family representative. He has been placed under arrest in line with the law,” Hundeyin said.

SERIOUS ASSAULT ON POLICE OFFICER: SEUN KUTI TURNS SELF IN

Afrobeat musician, Seun Kuti, in the early hours of today turned himself in at the Lagos State Police Command Headquarters, Ikeja, in company of his lawyer and family representative. He has been placed under arrest 1/2 https://t.co/KDvQIWHupz pic.twitter.com/nRQn0yLmLh

— SP Benjamin Hundeyin (@BenHundeyin) May 15, 2023

“The Command appreciates the public for their concern and assures that the ongoing investigation will be detailed, transparent, professionally pursued; and justice will be manifestly served for all parties involved.”

Force spokesman Muyiwa Adejobi also tweeted photos of the singer at the state CID.

Assault: Seun Kuti under interrogation at the State CID Panti. We speak and act against attacks and assaults on Police officers, its evil and criminal. pic.twitter.com/bi2dLnqPPD

— Prince Olumuyiwa Adejobi (@Princemoye1) May 15, 2023

A video of an angry Seun slapping the unnamed police officer on Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos went viral on Saturday, May 13.

Following condemnation of his action, the singer wrote on Instagram Story, “He tried to kill me and my family. I have the proof but I no dey chase clout. He has apologised and I have agreed not to press charges. Make una mind una business make the poor guy no lose him job.”

The IGP immediately ordered his arrest and prosecution.

“IGP has equally ordered a speedy and full investigation into the remote and immediate cause(s) of the assault and prosecution of the suspect accordingly,” a statement on Saturday night by Adejobi said.

Seun, who has since hired rights activist Femi Falana to defend him in court, reacted: “I welcome the investigation and will give my full cooperation! I also pray to the IG that whoever is wrong should be indicted.”

A video where Seun boasted of slapping several policemen has also gone viral.