UK-based Nigerian gospel singer and broadcaster, Muyiwa Olarewaju, has alleged that he was treated as a suspect by UK police after reporting a robbery attempt earlier this year, raising fresh concerns about racial profiling and procedural fairness within law enforcement.
In a video shared via his official Twitter account, Olarewaju recounted a disturbing incident that occurred around 5:30 a.m. in February as he was en route to work. According to his account, a young white male attempted to break into his car, smashing one of the windows in the process. The singer managed to flee the scene and promptly reported the incident to the police, also providing information about surveillance cameras in the area that might have captured the attack.
Despite being the complainant in what appeared to be an attempted robbery, Olarewaju said the police response took an unexpected and troubling turn.
“Immediately after the police got in touch with me, the next thing was they began an investigation where I was now the suspect,” Olarewaju said. “Yes, I was now the suspect.”
The artist, known for his work as a worship leader and his contributions to Christian broadcasting in the UK, stated that he was subsequently summoned for questioning and felt compelled to retain legal counsel. He praised the law firm Hanson Woods for their representation, stating, “Thank God for family in Hanson Woods… they were absolutely phenomenal.”
In a twist that further complicates the case, Olarewaju claims that the individual caught on camera attacking his car was never identified or apprehended. Instead, police initiated an investigation against Olarewaju on suspicion of affray, a charge that typically relates to involvement in public fighting or causing fear of violence.
He said the investigation dragged on for approximately three months before being quietly closed due to insufficient evidence.
“Three months later, they’ve come back to say nothing to see here. They can’t find the guy who attacked my car, and they don’t have any more evidence on their charge against me,” he said.
Olarewaju’s experience has reignited debate around how racial bias might influence policing outcomes in the UK. Critics of the system argue that the treatment of Black individuals as suspects even when they are victims or witnesses is neither rare nor accidental.
In concluding his account, Olarewaju urged the public to remain cautious and to consider securing legal representation in advance of any unexpected legal entanglements.
“I’m sure the police are doing a wonderful job to keep law and order, but some things go wrong sometimes,” he remarked, cautiously critiquing what he views as a systemic lapse in justice.
At the time of publication, UK police have not issued a statement in response to Olarewaju’s claims.
Reference
Nigerian Gospel Singer Alleges Police Misconduct After Reporting Robbery in the UK