[Yaba, Lagos] – Afrobeat sensation, Seun Kuti, has been granted bail by the Chief Magistrate Court in Yaba, Lagos.
Viral reports sighted by MandyNews.com reveal that along with the court’s decision came an order for the Nigerian police to finalize their investigation into the alleged assault of a policeman within 48 hours, facilitating Kuti’s return home.
The prosecution team, comprised of S. A. Adebese and Morufu Animashaun, advocated for a 21-day remand of the defendant, while they awaited legal advice from the Directorate of Public Prosecutions. On the other hand, the defense, spearheaded by Femi Falana, SAN, contested the remand application, citing their unawareness about it.
“The court has decided to prioritize its judgment over public opinion.” – Chief Magistrate
After hearing both sides, the magistrate called for a brief recess to mull over the matter. Upon returning, she delivered her ruling, expressing that she wouldn’t solely depend on the police investigation. Consequently, she instructed for the defendant to be remanded in police custody for a span of 48 hours.
During this 48-hour remand period, the police are expected to wrap up their investigation. Post this period, the defendant will be eligible for bail, set at the sum of N1 million, on the condition that two responsible sureties are provided. In addition, the sureties must produce a verifiable three-year tax payment receipt, and one of them must possess landed property within the court’s jurisdiction.
The case has been adjourned until May 23, 2023, for mention, paving the way for further legal proceedings and developments in this ongoing matter.
Late on Monday night, sources disclosed that the police at the Lagos State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department, Panti, reportedly declined to grant Seun Kuti bail, following a futile attempt to cajole him into penning a statement that would incriminate him in the case of an alleged assault on a police officer.
The police stated they were still wrapping up their investigation, thereby dismissing the lawyer’s plea to grant the musician bail.
The situation escalated when a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Mr. Femi Falana, one of the lawyers defending Seun, dialed the police commissioner to complain about the unruly behavior of the officers, their treatment of his client, and their obstruction of Olumide-Fusika from being present during the musician’s questioning.
Allegedly, the police officers at the facility continued to display hostility towards Seun, his lawyers, and his family members.
With tensions escalating, the next hearing on May 23, 2023, promises to be a pivotal event in the unfolding drama surrounding Kuti’s case.
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