Embattled Nigerian rapper Speed Darlington has taken legal action against the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, filing a lawsuit following his alleged unlawful detention. According to reports from DAILY POST, Darlington’s troubles began when he was arrested by the police due to comments he made about popular singer Burna Boy. He faced accusations of defamation and cyberstalking related to these remarks.
Despite being granted bail by the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday, December 23, 2024, Darlington remained in police custody, raising concerns about the legality of his continued detention. In a video shared on social media, his lawyer alleged that Burna Boy had paid the police to keep Darlington detained, suggesting a potential misuse of power and influence.
On January 6, 2025, the Federal High Court ordered the police to release Speed Darlington, affirming his right to freedom. However, shortly after this court order was issued, the rapper responded by filing a N300 million lawsuit against the IGP, claiming that his rights had been violated during his detention.
The legal proceedings have continued, with the Federal High Court in Abuja scheduling a hearing for January 13, 2025, to address Speed Darlington’s fundamental rights enforcement suit against the police. This decision came after Darlington’s lawyer, Abubakar Marshal, requested an adjournment to provide the police’s legal representative, Garba Audu, with adequate time to review and respond to the suit.
This case highlights ongoing issues related to the treatment of individuals within the Nigerian legal system, particularly concerning the intersection of celebrity influence and law enforcement practices. Speed Darlington’s situation has garnered significant public attention, raising questions about the balance of power and the protection of individual rights in the face of alleged abuse.
