Nigerian controversial singer, Speed Darlington has filed a N300 million fundamental rights enforcement suit against the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, citing unlawful detention.
Owing to this, the Federal High Court in Abuja scheduled the hearing for January 13, following a request for adjournment by Darlington’s lawyer, Abubakar Marshal, to allow the police’s counsel, Garba Audu, time to review the documents.
The case originates from a December 23, 2024, court order demanding the police either charge Darlington or release him within 48 hours. Meanwhile, court hasdirected the Nigerian police to comply with the order, pending the hearing of the substantive matter, and appointed Abubakar Marshal as surety.
Speed Darlington, (aka Akpi) aged 39, was arrested in Lagos on allegations of defamation and cyberstalking related to comments about Grammy award-winning singer, Burna Boy. He was granted bail on October 8, 2024. At the resumed hearing, Marshal requested the court to enforce Darlington’s rights, while Audu opposed, citing an ongoing criminal charge and claiming Darlington had jumped bail.
The singer’s trial is set for January 15, 2025, but Justice Liman urged the police to release Darlington to his lawyer in the interim.
Darlington’s suit is seeking damages for unlawful detention and demands his immediate release, alleging torture and inhumane treatment during detention.
