In response to the recent assault on a police officer on the Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos, the Inspector-General of Police has ordered the arrest of Seun Kuti, the son of the late Fela Kuti. Vanguard has learned that a police operation was conducted at Seun’s Lagos apartment and the iconic African shrine in the Ikeja area of Lagos in an attempt to apprehend him.
According to sources, the police operatives visited Seun’s residence on Saturday night and Sunday morning but were unable to locate him. It is suspected that Seun has gone into hiding, and efforts are being made to track him down.
The Police Service Commission (PSC) has condemned the assault on the police officer, praising the prompt action taken by the Inspector General of Police, Baba Usman Alkali, in ordering Seun’s arrest and prosecution.
Meanwhile, human rights activist and lawyer Femi Falana, SAN, has stated that Seun Kuti has sought his legal services following the IGP’s order. Falana confirmed that Seun would voluntarily surrender himself to the police on Monday, emphasizing that there are no issues preventing his cooperation.
Efforts to reach the Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, for comment were unsuccessful. However, police sources at the Command headquarters have assured that the IGP’s directive will be strictly followed.
Seun Kuti responded to the order via his Instastory on Saturday night, expressing his willingness to cooperate with the investigation. He wrote, “I welcome the investigation and will give my full cooperation. I also pray to the IG that whoever is wrong should be indicted.”
Executive Director of the Rule of Law and Accountability Centre, Mr. Okechukwu Nwagunma, condemned Seun’s action and called for an impartial and thorough investigation. Nwagunma cited Section 98 of the Police Act 2020, which deems assault on a police officer an offense punishable by a fine or imprisonment.
The PSC demanded the immediate prosecution of Seun Kuti, urging the Inspector General to ensure that the case is thoroughly investigated and concluded. Dr. Solomon Arase, Chairman of the PSC and former Inspector General of Police, stressed that no matter the offense committed by a police officer, assaulting an officer on duty is unacceptable. He commended the police officer for not retaliating and emphasized the need for Seun’s prompt prosecution as a deterrent to others.
The incident involving Seun Kuti has garnered condemnation from various quarters. Dr. Kayode Ajulo, a rights lawyer, expressed concern over Seun’s behavior and recommended psychological help for anger management. He also called for a sincere apology to the police force, the victim, and the Nigerian people. Ajulo emphasized the importance of understanding human rights and protecting one’s interests.
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has warned that assault on a police officer is a serious offense. The command’s spokesperson, Josephine Adeh, responded to Seun’s action by stating that such behavior is alarming and that the IGP has shown zero tolerance for police misconduct. Adeh assured the public that individuals who assault the police will be punished within the bounds of the law.
As the investigation unfolds, the public awaits further developments regarding Seun Kuti’s arrest and subsequent legal proceedings.
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