A Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned the N300 million fundamental rights enforcement suit filed by singer Darlington Achakpo, popularly known as Speed Darlington, against the police. The case will resume on March 19 for the adoption of processes.
The decision came after CSP Audu Garba, representing the Inspector-General of Police, informed the court that a further counter-affidavit had just been filed in response to Speed Darlington’s recent affidavit.
However, Rosemary Hamza, the singer’s lawyer, stated she had not yet received the document and needed time to prepare her response.
Details of the Lawsuit
Speed Darlington filed the case, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1832/2024, against the Inspector-General of Police as the sole respondent. He is seeking four key orders, including:
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A declaration that his arrest and detention violated his fundamental rights under the 1999 Constitution.
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An order for his immediate and unconditional release from custody.
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Alternatively, an order for the police to present him in court to clarify the circumstances of his arrest and detention, and, if appropriate, grant him bail.
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A directive for the police to pay N300 million in damages for unlawful detention.
Background of the Case
According to an affidavit by Esther Eyisi, a secretary at the singer’s law firm, Speed Darlington was first arrested on October 4, 2024, for allegedly defaming musician Burna Boy. He was detained for five days without being formally charged and claimed he was subjected to severe torture and maltreatment during that time.
After being granted bail, Speed Darlington was re-arrested on November 27, 2024, for allegedly jumping administrative bail. However, Eyisi stated that the singer had notified the police of a medical emergency and obtained permission to travel to Owerri, Imo State, for a performance.
The affidavit emphasized that Speed Darlington’s continued detention violated his constitutional rights and caused significant hardship, as he is the breadwinner of his family.
Police Response
In a counter-affidavit, SP David Atama stated that Burna Boy, through his lawyer, filed a petition on September 24, 2024, alleging threats, intimidation, and cyberbullying by Speed Darlington. The police claim the singer admitted to the offense in a written statement during their investigation.
However, in his further affidavit, Speed Darlington denied admitting to any offense and described the allegations as false and misleading. He accused Burna Boy of making light of the situation publicly, turning it into a joke.
Bail Granted
On January 15, Speed Darlington was granted bail by Justice Ekerete Akpan of a sister court in Abuja. The bail was set at N20 million with one surety after the singer pleaded not guilty to a two-count charge of alleged cybercrime.
As the case continues, public interest remains high, with many watching to see how the court will rule on Speed Darlington’s claims of rights violations and his demand for compensation.
