…By Muyiwa Aderinto for TDPel Media.
Understanding Seun Kuti’s Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: A History of Police Brutality
Former presidential aide, Reno Omokri, sheds light on Afrobeat singer Seun Kuti’s recent actions, suggesting that they are rooted in his experiences of police brutality.
Omokri acknowledges that what Kuti did was wrong and condemns it, but he highlights the traumatic history that Kuti and his family have endured at the hands of the Nigerian police.
The Legacy of Police Brutality:
Omokri reveals that Kuti’s grandmother, Olufumilayo Kuti, was a victim of police brutality. She was beaten and thrown from a building, resulting in her untimely death.
Additionally, Kuti’s father, the legendary Fela Kuti, faced constant acts of violence from the police. Their family residence was burnt down, and they never received compensation for their losses.
The police also targeted their renowned music venue, the shrine, on numerous occasions.
The Impact on Seun Kuti:
Omokri suggests that these traumatic experiences have left a lasting impact on Seun Kuti’s mental well-being.
He argues that Kuti’s animosity towards security personnel in the country is a consequence of the violence inflicted upon his family.
Omokri draws attention to the concept of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and believes that Kuti may be suffering from it as a result of the police’s actions.
Contextualizing the Recent Incident:
While condemning Kuti’s recent actions, Omokri emphasizes the importance of considering the context.
He acknowledges that there was provocation from the policeman involved but clarifies that he does not justify the act of slapping.
Omokri urges the Inspector General of Police to take into account Kuti’s PTSD, highlighting that even Aisha Buhari, the first lady, has spoken about her husband, President Muhammadu Buhari, experiencing PTSD due to his encounters with the Nigerian state apparatus.
A Call for Equity:
Omokri concludes by highlighting that both the police and Seun Kuti bear responsibility for the recent incident.
He appeals for fairness and understanding, urging authorities to consider the mitigating circumstances of Kuti’s traumatic history.
Omokri advocates for equity in addressing the situation, not just focusing on punitive measures but also acknowledging the systemic issues within the police institution.
Commentary: The commentary on Seun Kuti’s actions provides insights into the possible underlying factors that contributed to his behavior.
By examining the history of police brutality experienced by Kuti and his family, the article sheds light on the psychological impact such trauma can have.
It emphasizes the need for a comprehensive understanding of individuals’ experiences and the importance of addressing the systemic issues within law enforcement institutions.
Read More On The Topic On TDPel Media