In a shocking turn of events, Benue’s top rapper, Too Prince, known for his chart-topping hit songs such as Pepe, Tse Geri, Pepper and so many others too numerous to mention, found himself at the center of controversy when he was arrested, detained and later released by the Zaki Biam police.
Too Prince has rapidly become a household name in Benue and beyond, thanks to his captivating musical style and memorable hits. Songs like Tse Geri, with its infectious beat and catchy lyrics, have become anthems in clubs and parties.
Similarly, Pepe and Shimakwe have gained massive popularity, showcasing Too Prince’s versatility as an artist. His ability to seamlessly blend various genres, from hip-hop to Afrobeat, Tiv and Hausa has contributed to his unique sound and broad appeal.
With a string of hit songs, he has captured the attention of fans across the region. Recently, Too Prince had the honour of being interviewed by popular comedian Omo Benue, further solidifying his position as one of the top artists in the state.
The reason behind this ordeal? Too Prince’s decision to keep dreadlocks. Too Prince took to Facebook to inform his fans and well-wishers about his unjust arrest. He revealed that he was apprehended in Zaki Biam by the police without any clear reason. It became evident that the sole basis for his arrest was his hairstyle – dreadlocks. The incident highlights the deep-rooted biases and prejudices that still exist within our society, particularly when it comes to personal appearance. The unfair targeting and profiling of individuals based on their choice of hairstyle. Dreadlocks, a hairstyle rooted in cultural and personal expression, should not be a legitimate reason for law enforcement to single out and detain someone. This incident raises concerns about the violation of personal freedom, individuality and the right to self-expression.
The arrest undoubtedly had a significant impact on Too Prince, both personally and professionally. Being apprehended by the police for no justifiable reason can be traumatic and emotionally distressing. Moreover, the incident disrupted his life, causing unnecessary stress and anxiety. Artists like Too Prince rely on their freedom of expression, and this incident may have left him questioning his ability to create and perform without facing unnecessary scrutiny.
The response from Too Prince’s fans, friends and the wider community has been overwhelmingly supportive. The incident sparked outrage and condemnation, with many rallying behind the rapper, demanding justice and an end to discriminatory practices. The power of social media played a crucial role in mobilizing support for Too Prince, with fans and fellow artists expressing their solidarity and voicing their discontent. The arrest of Too Prince highlights the urgent need for societal introspection and a reassessment of discriminatory practices. The incident opens up a broader conversation about the prejudiced perceptions that persist regarding certain hairstyles, clothing choices and personal expression. It calls for comprehensive reforms within law enforcement agencies to prevent such incidents from recurring.
To prevent future incidents like the arrest of Too Prince, it is essential to raise awareness about the importance of inclusivity and respect for personal choices. Advocacy campaigns, educational initiatives and community dialogues can play a crucial role in challenging discriminatory attitudes and promoting acceptance of diverse forms of self-expression. Additionally, law enforcement agencies should implement training programs focused on cultural sensitivity and awareness to prevent misguided arrests based on appearance.
The unjust arrest and subsequent release of Too Prince, Benue’s top rapper, for simply keeping dreadlocks, serve as a stark reminder of the discrimination that still exists in our society. This incident has sparked conversations about personal freedom, self-expression and the need for social change. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that incidents like this do not go unnoticed and to work towards a more inclusive and accepting society, where individuals are not judged or targeted based on their appearance. Too Prince’s resilience and the support he received demonstrate the power of unity and the determination to fight against injustice.
