Burna Boy: Speed Darlington Sues IGP for N300m
Controversial Nigerian rapper, Speed Darlington, has filed a ₦300 million lawsuit against the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, over what he claims was an unlawful detention.
Darlington was arrested and detained following allegations of defamation and cyberstalking targeted at fellow artist Burna Boy. The arrest stemmed from comments made by the rapper about Burna Boy, which reportedly led to his initial detention.
Although granted bail by the Federal High Court in Abuja on December 23, 2024, Darlington remained in police custody. This prompted his lawyer to accuse Burna Boy of allegedly influencing the police to extend his detention.
On January 6, 2025, the court issued an order for Darlington’s release. Shortly afterwards, the rapper filed a lawsuit against the IGP, citing a violation of his fundamental human rights.
The Federal High Court in Abuja has scheduled January 13 for a hearing on the case, following a request by Darlington’s lawyer, Abubakar Marshal, to allow the police counsel, Garba Audu, time to review the suit.
The legal battle has drawn widespread attention, with debates intensifying over the intersection of free speech, celebrity influence, and law enforcement in Nigeria.
