Speed Darlington Sues Police Over Detention

The Federal High Court in Abuja has scheduled January 13 for the hearing of a ₦300 million lawsuit filed by singer Darlington Achakpo, popularly known as Speed Darlington against the police.

The suit alleges violations of his fundamental rights by the Inspector-General of Police. Justice Musa Liman granted the adjournment following a request from the singer’s lawyer, Abubakar Marshal, to allow the police’s counsel, Garba Audu, more time to review legal documents. 

Background of the Case 
Speed Darlington was arrested in October 2024 over allegations of defamation and cyberstalking involving artist Damini Ogulu, also known as Burna Boy. The arrest followed a petition reportedly filed by Burna Boy, leading to the singer’s transfer from Lagos to Abuja, where he remained in detention. Although he was granted bail on October 8, 2024, Darlington was detained again in November for allegedly breaching his bail terms. 

An affidavit filed by Esther Eyisi, a secretary at the law firm representing Darlington, claimed he had been tortured and maltreated during a five-day detention without being charged. Eyisi also alleged that his continued detention after a medical emergency and approved travel for a performance was unlawful. 

Legal Proceedings 
On December 23, 2024, Justice Liman ordered the police to either charge Speed Darlington in court or release him unconditionally within 48 hours. However, during a hearing on January 6, it was revealed that the singer was still in detention. Marshal requested the court to release him pending his arraignment, arguing his detention violated his constitutional rights. 

The police lawyer, Garba Audu, acknowledged a criminal charge had been filed against Speed Darlington but cited delays caused by the holiday season. He also accused the singer of jumping administrative bail, leading to further legal actions. The charge is set to be heard before Justice Ekerete Akpan on January 15, 2025. 

Court Remarks 
Justice Liman noted that the police had not willfully disobeyed the earlier order but encouraged them to release Darlington to his lawyer. “I don’t see anything the police will lose if granted bail,” the judge remarked, before adjourning the case to January 13. 

Speed Darlington’s Demands 
In his lawsuit, the singer contends that his arrest and detention violate his fundamental rights as guaranteed by the Nigerian Constitution. He seeks: 

1. Immediate release or a court review of his detention. 

2. ₦300 million in damages for unlawful detention. 

3. A declaration that his arrest and treatment were unconstitutional. 

The case will continue with hearings on January 13, 2025.

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