Hunger Strike Ends: Remanded Afrobeat singer, Seun Kuti, broke his hunger strike after facing rejection from fellow suspects in police custody. The musician, who had turned himself in for questioning after being accused of slapping a police officer, experienced a tumultuous time behind bars. Following preliminary investigations, Seun was placed in the State Criminal, Investigations and Intelligence Department, Panti, Yaba, Lagos. However, his presence in the cell was met with vehement opposition from other detainees, resulting in a stand-off. After a tense negotiation, Seun reluctantly agreed to pay a sum of N25,000 to secure his acceptance and avoid further conflicts.
Legal Proceedings: Seun Kuti’s legal journey began when he surrendered himself, accompanied by his lawyers and a family representative, for interrogation. Subsequently, he was arraigned at the Sabo, Yaba Chief Magistrate Court, where he was granted bail with a provision that it would become effective after 48 hours. This arrangement allowed the police ample time to conclude their investigation. Despite being granted bail, Seun was temporarily remanded in police custody until the stipulated time elapsed.
Turbulent Reception: Upon being taken to the cell, Seun was met with hostility from his fellow inmates who vehemently objected to his presence. The cell leader ordered Seun to remain standing until he received approval from the other detainees to sit. The inmates expressed their dissatisfaction by pounding on the metal protective door, demanding his removal. Eventually, Seun managed to broker peace by negotiating and agreeing to pay a sum of N25,000 to appease his cellmates and gain their acceptance. This turn of events left Seun deeply frustrated, prompting him to embark on a hunger strike, which lasted nearly two days before he finally resumed eating.