Activist and lawyer Deji Adeyanju has recently accused Nigerian music star Damini Ogulu, known as Burna Boy, of using the police to intimidate fellow singer Speed Darlington. Adeyanju, known for his outspoken nature, claims that Burna Boy is behind the police harassment faced by Darlington. His comments have sparked public debate about the ongoing tension between the two artists.
In a post on the social media platform X, Adeyanju made the accusation, writing, “Burna Boy behind the harassment of Speed Darlington by the police. This is someone who has been singing against oppression and forming junior Fela, now oppressing Akpi.” His statement is a direct criticism of Burna Boy, who is known for his songs that address social and political issues, including his self-proclaimed image as a figure of resistance to oppression.
The tension between Burna Boy and Speed Darlington has been escalating, with the latter recently facing multiple encounters with law enforcement. Darlington was arrested in Owerri, Imo State, while performing at a show. This arrest occurred just days after his return to Nigeria earlier in the week, heightening concerns over the legal and political pressures he faces.
Speed Darlington’s legal troubles began earlier this year when he was accused of cyberstalking Burna Boy. In a previous arrest, Darlington was detained by the Nigeria Police Force’s Intelligence Response Team (IRT) in Abuja. He had been arrested in Lagos before being transferred to the nation’s capital, where he spent time in detention. The accusations of cyberstalking reportedly stemmed from Darlington’s social media posts that criticized Burna Boy.
The Imo State Police Command’s recent actions in re-arresting Darlington have brought further attention to the case. The arrest while performing at a public event has raised questions about the extent of police involvement in matters related to celebrity conflicts. The timing and manner of the arrest have fueled speculation that it may be part of a larger effort to suppress Darlington, who has been vocal about his grievances with Burna Boy.
In response to the ongoing developments, supporters of Speed Darlington have rallied around the artist, calling for justice and for an end to what they see as the abuse of power by those in the entertainment industry. Darlington himself has not yet commented directly on Adeyanju’s accusations, but his legal team is reportedly preparing to challenge the latest arrest.
