Nigerian Singer Speed Darlington Freed After Months in Prison

Nigerian Singer Speed Darlington Freed After Months in Prison

Speed Darlington Regains Freedom After Two Months in Detention

Nigerian singer Darlington Achakpo, popularly known as Speed Darlington, has been released from Kuje Prison in Abuja after meeting the bail conditions set by the Federal High Court. The news was announced by his lawyer, Stan Alieke, on social media.

Speed Darlington’s arrest on November 27, 2024, during a performance in Owerri, Imo State, sparked widespread controversy. He was taken into custody for alleged defamation of fellow singer Burna Boy, whose real name is Damini Ogulu.

Despite being granted bail, Speed Darlington remained in detention until his release on Tuesday. His lawyer expressed delight at the singer’s freedom, stating that they would explore every legal avenue to ensure Speed Darlington receives justice for the alleged violation of his fundamental human rights.

“Delighted to announce that our client, Mr Darlington Achakpo Aka Speed Darlington (Akpi) has regained his freedom after two months of illegal incarceration.

“For the record, as his team of lawyers, we will be exploring every angle of the law to ensure that he gets justice for his fundamental human right which was deprived of him by the Nigerian Police Force and for the unfair/ unjust treatment he was subjected to.

Background of the Case

Speed Darlington’s detention was deemed a “gross violation” of his rights to dignity, liberty, expression, and movement under Chapter IV of the Nigerian Constitution. The singer had filed a N300 million fundamental rights enforcement suit against the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, over his alleged unlawful detention.

With his release, Speed Darlington has expressed gratitude to his supporters and legal team, including lawyers Marshal Abubakar, Deji Adeyanju, Hamza Nuh, and David.