A Federal High Court in Abuja has scheduled January 13 to hear a ₦300 million fundamental rights enforcement suit filed by detained singer Speed Darlington against the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.
The decision followed a request for adjournment by Speed Darlington’s lawyer, Abubakar Marshal, allowing the police counsel, Garba Audu, time to review the court documents.
Speed Darlington, whose real name is Darlington Achakpo, was first arrested in October 2024 over allegations of defamation and cyberstalking targeting award-winning artist Burna Boy. After being released on bail, he was rearrested in November 2024 for allegedly violating administrative bail conditions.
The police allege that Speed Darlington failed to report as scheduled, despite notifying them of a medical emergency and securing permission to travel to Owerri, Imo, for a performance.
Earlier, the court ordered the police to either charge the singer to court or release him within 48 hours. The police, however, cited the Christmas holiday as the reason for their noncompliance.
Speed Darlington’s legal team has argued that his prolonged detention without arraignment violates his constitutional rights. They are seeking his immediate and unconditional release and demanding ₦300 million in damages for unlawful detention.
The case has drawn significant public attention, with calls for justice and an end to alleged police abuse of power. All eyes will be on the court’s decision on January 13, which could shape the outcome of the high-profile lawsuit.
