Speed Darlington Files N300 Million Lawsuit Against IGP, Court Schedules Hearing

The Federal High Court in Abuja has set January 13 for the hearing of a N300 million lawsuit filed by singer Darlington Achakpo, popularly known as Speed Darlington, against the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun. The case revolves around claims of unlawful detention and violations of the singer’s fundamental rights.

Justice Musa Liman announced the date after the singer’s lawyer, Abubakar Marshal, requested an adjournment to allow the IGP’s counsel, Garba Audu, time to review the court documents. This development follows an earlier ruling by the court on December 23, 2024, which ordered the police to either charge Speed Darlington in court or release him unconditionally within 48 hours.

Speed Darlington was allegedly arrested on October 4, 2024, over accusations of defamation and cyberstalking involving award-winning artist Damini Ogulu, also known as Burna Boy. Reports indicate he was detained following a petition by Burna Boy and was later granted bail on October 8. However, on November 27, 2024, he was rearrested for allegedly breaching administrative bail conditions.

During the January 6 court session, Marshal informed the judge that Speed Darlington remained in custody despite previous orders for his release. The police, represented by Audu, claimed that a criminal charge had already been filed against the singer and that he had been admitted to administrative bail, which he purportedly violated. Audu explained that efforts to arraign him were delayed due to procedural issues and the Christmas holidays.

Marshal urged the court to release Speed Darlington pending his arraignment, asserting that the police had no valid reason to continue his detention. However, Audu opposed this request, maintaining that the police were not intentionally disobeying court orders.

Justice Liman expressed concern over the prolonged detention and advised the police to release the singer temporarily, emphasizing the importance of justice. He stated, “I don’t see anything the police will lose if granted bail,” and adjourned the case to January 13 for further proceedings.

The lawsuit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1832/2024, seeks declarations that Speed Darlington’s arrest and detention violated his constitutional rights. The artist is demanding N300 million in damages for alleged unlawful detention and maltreatment. He has also requested an order for his immediate release or arraignment to address the legality of his arrest.

Court documents revealed allegations that Speed Darlington was subjected to torture and held in inhumane conditions during his initial detention. His legal team argues that his re-arrest stemmed from a medical emergency that caused him to miss a bail appointment, which was reportedly communicated to the authorities.

The court will now determine the substantive issues, including whether the IGP acted lawfully and whether Speed Darlington is entitled to the requested damages.