Embattled Nigerian rapper Speed Darlington has taken legal action against the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, alleging unlawful detention.
Speed Darlington was reportedly arrested and detained by the police after making controversial comments about Nigerian music star Burna Boy. The rapper was accused of defamation and cyberstalking in connection with his statements about Burna Boy.
Despite being granted bail by the Federal High Court in Abuja on December 23, 2024, Darlington remained in police custody, which sparked significant public concern. Reacting to the continued detention, Darlington’s lawyer, Abubakar Marshal, released a video accusing Burna Boy of using his influence to keep the rapper behind bars by allegedly paying off the police.
On January 6, 2025, the Federal High Court ordered the police to release Speed Darlington. However, following his release, the rapper swiftly filed a N300 million lawsuit against the IGP, citing violations of his fundamental human rights earlier today.
The lawsuit seeks compensation for what Darlington described as a gross infringement on his liberty and personal dignity.
The Federal High Court in Abuja has now set January 13, 2025, as the hearing date for Speed Darlington’s fundamental rights enforcement suit. This decision came after a request for an adjournment by the rapper’s legal counsel. Darlington’s lawyer explained that the adjournment was necessary to allow Garba Audu, the police’s legal representative, adequate time to review and respond to the suit.
The case has garnered widespread attention, particularly because of its connections to Burna Boy, who is one of Africa’s most prominent music figures. It has also reignited conversations about the misuse of power, the rights of citizens, and the accountability of law enforcement agencies in Nigeria.
The case dates back to the rapper’s arrest in October 2024, when he was allegedly detained for five days under harsh conditions without being formally charged. He was later granted bail but was arrested again on November 27, 2024, following claims that he had violated the terms of his administrative bail. Darlington’s lawyers argue that the rapper’s constitutional rights were violated, particularly as he had informed the police of his medical emergency and had received permission to travel for a performance.
As the hearing date approaches, all eyes remain on the court’s upcoming proceedings to determine the outcome of the case and whether justice will be served for Speed Darlington.
