A group of human rights activists has launched the #FreeSeunKuti campaign, demanding the immediate release of Afrobeat singer Seun Kuti from police custody.

In a press release issued on Friday, the group expressed concern over the alleged altercation between Kuti and a police officer on the Third Mainland Bridge and criticized the disproportionate response from the Nigerian Police.

They emphasized that the incident involved a minor misdemeanor and called for a balanced perspective, urging authorities not to escalate the situation unnecessarily.

The activists also denounced what they perceived as an exploitation of the incident by certain elements within the police force, driven by personal vendetta over Kuti’s involvement in the #EndSARS protests.

They criticized the search of Kuti’s residence in relation to a different crime and the attempt to obtain a court order for blood testing, viewing these actions as a violation of his rights and an abuse of power.

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The group called for authorities to exercise restraint, focus on appropriate channels of justice, and address the alleged offense in a fair and just manner.

They emphasized the importance of upholding the principles of justice and fairness for all citizens, regardless of their social status or profession.

The activists vowed to closely monitor the case, take necessary political measures to protect Kuti’s rights, and potentially mobilize Nigerian youths for public protests against police brutality.

They urged the media and the public to preserve the presumption of innocence and allow due process to take its course.