Seun Kuti Begins Europe Tour After Making Bail For Police Assault

Nigerian artist Seun Kuti is heading to Europe after being granted bail in a case in which he is being accused of assaulting a police officer.

The musician’s lawyer, Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika, confirmed that Kuti met the bail conditions and was released Tuesday night. The news of his freedom spread quickly, with human rights activist and pro-democracy campaigner Omoyele Sowore sharing a video on Twitter showing Kuti celebrating with his fans.

The incident leading to Kuti’s arrest occurred on 13 May when a video capturing the musician physically assaulting a police officer on Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos went viral. However, prior to his arrest, Kuti had taken to social media to explain his actions, claiming that the officer had threatened the lives of his family.

While he did not provide further details, Kuti stated that he possessed evidence of the officer’s misconduct and decided not to press charges after apologising.

The son of Afrobeat icon Fela Kuti, the artist received both support and condemnation for his actions. Many fellow musicians supported the artist, while others criticised his behaviour. Despite the controversy surrounding his case, Kuti decided to turn himself in to the authorities after an order for his arrest was issued by police inspector-general Usman Alkali Baba.

The detention had consequences for Kuti’s professional commitments, as he was forced to miss a scheduled performance in Majorca, Spain, on 20 May. However, following his release, Kuti, who is the frontman of the Egypt 80 Band, jetted off to embark on his 2023 Europe tour. He will be on the road in various cities across Switzerland, Finland, France, Portugal and Spain.

Following his release, Kuti expressed his gratitude to his family, fans and the legal team for their unwavering support throughout the challenging period.