Abuja, Nigeria – (African Boulevard News) – A group of protesters gathered outside a court in Nigeria’s capital city of Abuja on Monday to demand the release of musician Seun Kuti. The son of the legendary Fela Kuti was arrested last week for allegedly inciting violence during a protest against police brutality.
Despite several court appearances, Kuti’s release has been repeatedly delayed, sparking outrage from his supporters and human rights activists. The group, which consisted of Kuti’s fans and fellow musicians, carried placards and chanted slogans demanding his immediate release.
The protest was held under the banner of “Free Seun Kuti” and was organized by the #EndSARS movement, which has been calling for an end to police brutality and systemic corruption in Nigeria. Speaking to African Boulevard News, a member of the movement said, “We understand what is going on, that the reason why Seun has been subjected to this media and political trial is because of his stand over the years against the capitalist government that has neglected the youths.”
The delay in Kuti’s release has drawn criticism from human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, which accused the Nigerian government of trampling on the rights of its citizens. “Seun Kuti’s detention is a blatant violation of his human rights,” said Osai Ojigho, Amnesty International’s Nigeria director. “The authorities must release him immediately and unconditionally.”
Kuti’s case has also sparked a wider conversation about the state of democracy and freedom of expression in Nigeria. Many Nigerians have expressed concern that the government is clamping down on dissent and stifling the voices of those who dare to speak out against corruption and injustice.
In a statement released last week, Kuti’s family expressed their shock and concern over his arrest and subsequent detention. “We are deeply saddened and troubled by this turn of events, which represents a clear violation of Seun’s constitutional rights,” the statement read.
The family has since called on the Nigerian government to release Kuti and drop all charges against him. “We urge the authorities to respect Seun’s fundamental rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, and to allow him to return to his family and his music,” the statement continued.
As of press time, Kuti remains in custody, with a court date scheduled for next week. The #FreeSeunKuti movement has vowed to continue protesting until he is released.
