Renowned Afrobeat singer Seun Kuti, who is currently facing charges for assaulting a police officer, has been appointed as the “General Overseer” by fellow inmates at the State Criminal, Investigations and Intelligence Department (SCIID) in Panti, Yaba, Lagos.
In an unexpected turn of events, Seun Kuti was initially rejected by the inmates but managed to win their acceptance by offering a monetary incentive.
During the initial rejection, Seun Kuti pledged to provide N25,000 to the inmates. Urgently needing to fulfill his promise, he requested a phone to call his wife, who promptly brought the money. Once the payment was handed over to their leader, the inmates welcomed Seun Kuti and assigned him a designated area to sit.
It was noted that Seun Kuti’s frustration with the situation led him to refuse the provided food, even the meals brought by his wife.
Seun Kuti maintained a hunger strike for approximately a day and a half before eventually relenting and consuming food.
A significant turning point occurred when the inmates decided to bestow upon him the title of “General Overseer” and presented him with a Bible.
Seun Kuti now leads prayer sessions whenever necessary, followed by the inmates chanting “GO, GO” in unison.
Reports have it that Seun Kuti was observed tightly clutching the Bible as he ascended the stairs toward the office of Deputy Commissioner of Police, Waheed Ayilara. Later, he was escorted back down the stairs and returned to his cell.
Sources indicate that Seun Kuti has received visits from his elder brother Femi, other family members, his legal representatives, and close friends during his time in custody.