A Federal High Court in Abuja has scheduled January 13 for the hearing of a N300 million fundamental rights enforcement suit filed by detained singer Darlington Achakpo, popularly known as Speed Darlington, against the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.
The adjournment was made on Monday by Justice Musa Liman, following a request from the singer’s counsel, Abubakar Marshal, to allow the police’s lawyer, Garba Audu, time to review and respond to the legal processes.
Speed Darlington, 39, was arrested in October 2024 over alleged defamation and cyberstalking of award-winning artist Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy. Reports suggest he was apprehended following a petition by Burna Boy and subsequently detained in Abuja after his initial arrest in Lagos.
On December 23, 2024, the court had ordered the police to either charge Speed Darlington to court or release him unconditionally within 48 hours.
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However, he remains in detention, prompting his lawyer to file a suit demanding his release and N300 million in damages for what is alleged to be unlawful detention and the violation of his fundamental rights.
The police claim Speed Darlington jumped administrative bail after his initial release and have filed criminal charges against him. The case is set for arraignment on January 15 before Justice Ekerete Akpan. The police lawyer, Audu, argued that logistical constraints during the Christmas holiday delayed compliance with the court’s earlier directive.
**Court’s Current Position**
Justice Liman, while acknowledging the police’s explanation, advised them to release Speed Darlington on bail, pending his arraignment. He remarked, “I don’t see anything the police will lose if granted bail.”
Read Also: Lawyer Accuses Police Of Defying Court Order In Speed Darlington’s Detention
In his suit, Speed Darlington is seeking:
1. An order for his immediate and unconditional release.
2. Alternatively, a directive to produce him in court for bail consideration.
3. A declaration that his arrest and detention violated his constitutional rights.
4. N300 million in damages for unlawful detention and alleged maltreatment during his time in custody.
The singer’s legal team alleges that his continuous detention without arraignment contravenes his rights and highlights his role as the primary provider for his family.
The case continues on January 13.
