Rita Odafe
Attorney Stan Alieke has shed light on the recent re-arrest of his client, musical artist Speed Darlington, in Owerri, Imo state.
The singer, known for the hit song ”Baby Oil,” was taken into custody on suspicions of breaching bail conditions.
It’s noteworthy that he was previously arrested in October following a complaint lodged by Grammy-winning artist Burna Boy.
In a statement released today, Alieke explained that after five days of being “illegally detained” and transported from Lagos in relation to the Burna Boy incident, Speed Darlington was granted administrative bail on October 8, 2024. Although he was instructed to check in later, he couldn’t due to a medical issue that necessitated international travel for treatment.
The singer had plans to return to Abuja following an event in Owerri, doing so under the guidance of his lawyer and in communication with law enforcement officials.
Alieke emphasized that it was never Speed Darlington’s intention to evade his bail obligations.
His statement further elaborated on the situation:
”After performing in Owerri, our client was detained by the police on claims of jumping bail. We understand this action was allegedly ordered by the Deputy Inspector General of Police at the Force Intelligence Bureau.
To clarify, on October 8, 2024, our client was granted bail after five days of what we term illegal detention related to the Burna Boy case. He was assigned a date for follow-up which he missed due to a medical crisis requiring overseas treatment.
In good faith and following consultations with his lawyer and police officials, our client had made arrangements to return to Abuja after his performance in Owerri. He consistently intended to comply with his bail terms.
We regard this police action as unnecessary and as an infringement on our client’s rights, reflecting a misuse of police powers and an attempt to cause him embarrassment.”
