Rita Odafe
Nigerian artist Speed Darlington has initiated legal action against Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, claiming he was unlawfully held by the police.
Speed Darlington’s arrest stemmed from his remarks about fellow musician Burna Boy, leading to accusations of defamation and cyberstalking.
Despite being granted bail on December 23, 2024, by the Federal High Court in Abuja, he was not released from police custody.
His attorney publicly alleged that Burna Boy orchestrated a payment to ensure Darlington’s continued detention.
On January 6, 2025, a court ordered the police to release him.
Shortly after, the rapper lodged a lawsuit demanding 300 million Naira from the IGP for infringing upon his rights.
The Federal High Court in Abuja has set January 13 to discuss the enforcement of Speed Darlington’s fundamental rights against the police, following his lawyer’s request for the adjournment to allow the police’s legal representative to prepare a response.
