In a recent development, the Sabo-Yaba Chief Magistrates’ Court in Lagos State declined the application made by the police to formally arraign renowned afrobeat singer, Seun Kuti.
After spending six days in custody, Kuti was released on Tuesday night following a court order that had remanded him since May 16. The police had sought his remand due to an alleged assault on a police officer.
During the proceedings on Wednesday, Mr. Cyril Ejiofor, who led the police’s legal team, requested the court’s permission to proceed with the arraignment of the singer, intending to formally press charges against him. However, Mr. Femi Falana (SAN), Kuti’s counsel, opposed the application.
Falana argued that the police had disregarded the directive of Chief Magistrate Mrs. Adeola Olatubosun to forward the case file to the Lagos State Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for advice.
He emphasized that allowing the police to simultaneously investigate and prosecute the case would be unjust. Falana further insisted that the court should uphold its order and ensure the case is transferred for the DPP’s advice.
In her ruling, Magistrate Olatubosun concurred with Falana’s arguments, stressing the necessity of obtaining the DPP’s advice before proceeding further with the case. She subsequently adjourned the proceedings until July 3, when the case will be mentioned again.
According to the police, the incident in question occurred on May 13 when Kuti allegedly assaulted a police officer on the Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos State.
The police claim that Kuti slapped an inspector after driving recklessly on the bridge and intentionally obstructing a moving police vehicle.
As the legal proceedings continue, both supporters and critics eagerly await the next chapter in this case, which has attracted significant attention in Nigeria’s music industry.
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