Grammy-nominated afrobeat singer, Seun Kuti, has recently disclosed that he perceives his life to be under threat, attributing the danger to unnamed individuals who seek to silence him for speaking what he believes to be the unfiltered truth.
In a candid video message shared on his Instagram page, the outspoken artist expressed his concerns about the numerous challenges he has faced over the years.
Seun Kuti revealed that he has lost count of the court cases and police invitations he has received, all stemming from his commitment to speaking his mind.
In the video, Kuti delves into the loneliness of his fight, stating, “I will reveal it here today. They want to silence me for this country. I can’t tell you how many wars I am fighting alone. I can’t tell you how many cases in court for nothing, how many police invitations left, right, and center for nothing. For just saying the truth, everybody is inviting the police on me.”
The singer alleges that the truth he speaks has made him a target, leading to concerted efforts to tarnish his reputation and, more worryingly, to threaten his life.
He sheds light on the ongoing struggles he faces, not just as a musician but as an individual who refuses to be silenced in the face of perceived injustice.
“Because I am saying the truth, they are trying to destroy and kill me. They are trying to bring me down and destroy my name. It’s not easy. They have been silencing speakers of the truth since 705 BC,” Kuti asserts, drawing historical parallels to emphasize the age-old challenge of those who dare to speak out against the status quo.
Seun Kuti’s revelation sheds light on the broader issue of freedom of expression and the challenges faced by individuals who use their platforms to critique societal norms and political structures.
The singer’s candidness in sharing the threats he perceives adds a layer of urgency to the ongoing discussions around the protection of free speech and the safety of those who choose to exercise it.
As the conversation unfolds, it prompts reflection on the responsibilities of society to protect and uphold the rights of individuals like Seun Kuti, who, despite facing adversity, continue to stand firm in their commitment to truth and justice. The artist’s plea for recognition and support amplifies the need for a society that values dissent and safeguards those who courageously speak their truths.