Renowned Senior Advocates of Nigeria, Femi Falana and Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika, who are serving as legal representatives for Afrobeat star Seun Kuti, have emphasized that their client’s recent trip to Switzerland is within the bounds of the law.
According to a report by Talkglitz Media, Seun Kuti embarked on his Europe tour in Zurich, Switzerland on Thursday, May 24, despite his ongoing legal battle with the police in Nigeria.
In defense of the musician’s journey, his lawyers clarified that Seun Kuti is presently not facing prosecution in court by the Nigeria Police Force or any other prosecuting authority.
During a press briefing, Femi Falana addressed the matter, stating, “Seun Kuti will willingly face his trial. Furthermore, the Magistrate has instructed the police to forward the case file to the Department of Public Prosecution.”
He continued, “Whenever he is required to stand trial, he will dutifully appear in court. Seun Kuti is presumed innocent until proven guilty. As far as we are concerned, once the state files charges and sets a date for arraignment, he will be present in court.”
Emphasizing the legality of Seun Kuti’s travel, Falana added, “There is nothing unlawful about a person traveling outside the country while on bail. Depositing his passport was not one of the bail conditions. As far as we are concerned, once the state files charges and sets a date for arraignment.”
Echoing these sentiments, Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika, SAN, noted that Seun Kuti is not currently facing prosecution as the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) is yet to reach a decision on his case.
Olumide-Fusika explained, “He will undoubtedly be present in court on July 3, 2023, and any subsequent dates as required. It is important to note that Mr. Seun Kuti is not currently being prosecuted in court by the NPF or any other prosecuting authority.”
“The DPP, after receiving and reviewing the police investigation file, will determine the specific charges to be brought against Mr. Kuti.
“Once he is charged with specific offenses, he will be arraigned to enter his plea. If he pleads not guilty, trial dates will be scheduled, and the proceedings will take place. If he pleads guilty, he will be sentenced accordingly,” Olumide-Fusika concluded.
Seun Kuti’s trip to Switzerland marks the beginning of his highly anticipated Europe tour, as fans eagerly await his performances across various cities on the continent.
While his legal battle continues in Nigeria, the musician remains committed to upholding his innocence and fulfilling his professional commitments.
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