Lawyers Vow to Secure Speed Darlington’s Bail Amid Controversy Over Detention
Counsel representing Nigerian artist Darlington Achakpo, popularly known as Speed Darlington, has pledged to fulfil his bail conditions following his extended detention by the Force Intelligence Bureau (FIB) in Abuja.
The law firm, Deji Adeyanju and Partners, confirmed their intention to appear at the FIB with a surety on January 8, 2025, to meet the requirements stipulated by the Federal High Court. This commitment was outlined in a formal letter addressed to Deputy Inspector General of Police, DIG Galadanchi, who oversees the FIB.
Prolonged Detention Sparks Legal Concerns
The legal tussle began after Speed Darlington’s arrest on November 27, 2023, during a performance in Owerri, Imo State. The artist’s detention stemmed from allegations of verbal abuse directed at Afrofusion superstar Damini Ogulu, better known as Burna Boy.
Darlington had publicly criticized Burna Boy for his association with embattled American rapper Sean “Diddy” Combs, who faces charges of sexual exploitation and human trafficking. Despite his arrest, Darlington remained defiant, vowing to continue his criticism of the Grammy Award-winning artist.
On December 23, 2023, Justice Liman of the Federal High Court ordered the police to either charge Darlington within 48 hours or release him unconditionally. However, the singer’s detention continued, prompting his legal team to accuse the authorities of disregarding the court’s directive.
Lawyers Demand Compliance
In their letter titled “Re: Unlawful Detention of Darlington Achakpo,” the lawyers highlighted what they termed the unlawful nature of Darlington’s prolonged custody. They pointed to the court’s reiteration of the release order on January 6, 2025, and its directive to hand the artist over to lead counsel Marshal Abubakar for trial.
The letter further detailed efforts by the legal team to meet the bail conditions imposed by the FIB, which required a Grade Level 16 civil servant as surety. However, the lawyers alleged that their attempts to engage with DIG Galadanchi and other officials on January 7 went unanswered.
“We will be at the FIB on January 8, 2025, with a surety to fulfil the bail conditions you imposed,” the letter stated, urging maximum cooperation from the police.
Arrest Highlights Legal and Artistic Tensions
Speed Darlington’s case has drawn public attention to the intersections of artistic expression, celebrity rivalry, and legal accountability. His arrest underscores the potential consequences of public criticism in Nigeria’s entertainment industry, as well as the importance of upholding judicial orders.
As the legal team prepares to secure his release, all eyes remain on the FIB’s response and the next chapter of this high-profile dispute.
