A Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned the N300 million fundamental rights enforcement suit filed by singer Darlington Achakpo, popularly known as Speed Darlington, against the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) to January 27, 2025. The case, which centers around claims of unlawful arrest and detention, was initially filed in response to Speed Darlington’s multiple arrests by the police in late 2024. His legal team argues that his fundamental rights, as enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution, were violated during the arrest and detention.
The lawsuit stems from an incident on October 4, 2024, when Speed Darlington was arrested in Lagos for allegedly defaming fellow artist Burna Boy on social media. He was released on bail a few days later but was rearrested on November 27, 2024, for allegedly breaching his bail conditions. According to Speed Darlington’s legal representatives, the police failed to follow due process and subjected him to emotional distress and reputational damage.
In the suit, Speed Darlington is seeking a court order for his immediate and unconditional release from police custody. He is also demanding N300 million as compensation for damages, which he claims resulted from the violation of his rights. Additionally, the singer is requesting a public apology from the police, citing that the entire ordeal has caused him significant financial losses and harmed his career.
The police, on their part, have denied any wrongdoing, stating that Speed Darlington’s arrest was lawful and based on a petition from Burna Boy, who accused him of intimidation and threats. The police further argued that the singer admitted to making certain statements during the investigation, which justified their actions. In response to the claims, the police requested additional time to review the new affidavit submitted by Speed Darlington’s legal team.
Presiding over the case, Justice Musa Liman granted the police’s request for more time to respond and adjourned the matter to January 27, 2025. The adjournment is expected to allow both parties to prepare adequately for the next hearing, where the court will determine whether Speed Darlington’s rights were indeed violated and if he is entitled to the N300 million compensation he seeks.
