Nigerian rapper, Speed Darlington, has taken legal action against the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, by filing a ₦300 million lawsuit for his alleged unlawful detention. The rapper, known as Darlington Achakpo, claims that he was held without charge after making controversial statements about fellow musician Burna Boy.
Initially arrested in October 2024 on charges of defamation and cyberstalking related to his comments about Burna Boy, Darlington was granted bail by the Federal High Court on December 23, 2024. Despite this, he remained in custody, sparking public outrage. In response, Darlington’s legal team accused Burna Boy of allegedly paying the police to keep the rapper detained.
The Federal High Court in Abuja has scheduled a hearing for January 13, 2025, to address Darlington’s lawsuit against the police for the violation of his fundamental rights. The court granted a brief adjournment to allow the police’s lawyer, Garba Audu, to review and respond to the documents served by Darlington’s legal representative, Abubakar Marshal.
In the lawsuit, Darlington is seeking compensation for the alleged unlawful detention and mistreatment he endured while in custody. His legal team also demands his immediate release or a court appearance. Lawyers Deji Adeyanju and Stan Alieke are calling for an order compelling the IGP to release Darlington or bring him to court to explain the circumstances of his detention.
The case stems from Darlington’s arrest in October 2024, where he was reportedly held for five days without formal charges. Despite being granted bail, he was re-arrested on November 27, 2024, for allegedly violating the terms of his bail. Darlington’s lawyers argue that his constitutional rights were violated, especially as he had informed the police of a medical emergency and had permission to travel for a performance.
During the court proceedings on January 6, 2025, Darlington’s lawyer informed the court that the case aimed to enforce his client’s fundamental rights. However, the IGP’s lawyer, Mr. Audu, stated that criminal charges had been filed against Darlington before the motion for his release was filed.
Despite previous court orders to release Darlington or charge him, he remained in custody, leading to the lawsuit. The IGP’s lawyer argued that Darlington had been granted administrative bail but allegedly violated the conditions.
The case is set for a hearing on January 13, 2025, with Darlington seeking ₦300 million in damages for the alleged unlawful detention and mistreatment. As the legal battle unfolds, all eyes are on the court as it decides the fate of the embattled rapper.
