Speed Darlington files ₦300m suit against IGP over alleged illegal detention

Nigerian singer Speed Darlington has filed a ₦300 million fundamental rights enforcement suit against the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, over his alleged unlawful detention.

The case, now scheduled for hearing on January 13, 2025, will be heard at the Federal High Court in Abuja, following a request by Darlington’s lawyer, Abubakar Marshal, for an adjournment to allow the police counsel, Garba Audu, time to review the served documents.

The legal dispute arose after a court order on December 23, 2024, directed the police to either charge the singer or release him within 48 hours. Despite this order, Darlington was reportedly not released, prompting his legal team to seek redress.

Earlier, the Federal High Court had ordered Darlington’s immediate release pending the hearing of the substantive case.

His lawyer, Marshal, stood as surety for him as per the court’s directive. Deji Adeyanju, another member of Darlington’s legal team, confirmed the development on social media, emphasizing the importance of the court’s intervention.

Darlington’s arrest on December 23, 2024, in Lagos stemmed from allegations of defamation and cyberstalking related to his comments about fellow artist Burna Boy.

He was previously granted bail on October 8, 2024, but the police alleged he had jumped bail.

At the resumed hearing, Marshal argued for the enforcement of Darlington’s rights and his immediate release on bail, a request opposed by Audu, who cited the ongoing criminal case.

Audu, however, confirmed that the police had not defied the court order, attributing delays to the Christmas holiday.

Justice Liman advised the police to release Darlington to his lawyer in the interim, while the singer’s trial for the substantive criminal case is scheduled for January 15, 2025.

Darlington’s legal team has alleged that he was subjected to torture and inhumane treatment during his detention.

His suit seeks damages of ₦300 million for the unlawful detention, as well as an order for his immediate release or production before the court.