Nigeria: Seun Kuti turns himself in after assaulting police officer

According to Section 98 of the Nigerian Police Act, it is illegal to assault, obstruct or resist a police officer, or encourage others to do so. If found guilty, individuals can be fined up to ₦500 000 (about $1 000), imprisoned for up to six months, or both.

Shortly after the clip of the altercation went viral, Seun Kuti, the son of Afrobeat icon Fela Kuti, addressed the incident, saying the officer in question had attempted to harm him and his family.

“He tried to kill me and my family,” Kuti posted on Instagram. “I have the evidence, but I’m not seeking attention. He has apologised, and I have agreed not to press charges. Let everyone mind their own business and ensure the officer doesn’t lose his job.”

Renowned lawyer and human rights activist Femi Falana, who is representing Seun Kuti, said his client possessed evidence to support his claims, but emphasised that the musician would cooperate with the authorities. 

The Police Service Commission has commended the officer for maintaining restraint, urging that the case be pursued to its conclusion to restore public confidence in the police.

Condemnation of the singer, who joined several other musicians during the #EndSARS protests against police brutality and harassment two years ago, has come from various quarters.

Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre executive director Okechukwu Nwanguma called for a thorough and impartial investigation into the issue, while lawyer Kayode Ajulo said the musician needed psychological help and urged him to apologise unconditionally to the Nigeria Police Force, the victim and the entire nation.

Federal Capital Territory Police Command spokesperson Josephine Adeh dismissed the notion that the assault was justified due to alleged police brutality, and said all who assaulted police officers would face legal consequences.