Nigerian artist Speed Darlington has filed a ₦300 million lawsuit against the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, accusing the police of unlawful detention and the violation of his fundamental rights. The case, which has attracted public attention, is set for a hearing on January 13, 2025, at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the court scheduled the hearing after Darlington’s lawyer, Abubakar Marshal, requested an adjournment. This postponement is intended to give the police’s counsel, Garba Audu, time to review and respond to the documents served by Darlington’s legal team.
The lawsuit stems from a court order issued on December 23, 2024, directing the police to either charge Darlington or release him within 48 hours. The artist, 39, was initially taken into custody in Lagos over allegations of defamation and cyberstalking tied to statements he allegedly made about fellow musician Burna Boy.
Despite being granted bail on October 8, 2024, Darlington’s legal troubles have persisted. During a resumed hearing, his lawyer, Marshal, stated that the session aimed to address the motion to enforce Darlington’s fundamental rights.
Marshal urged the court to compel the police to grant his client bail, emphasizing that his continued detention violated the earlier court order. “The police must comply with the court’s directive to release my client or bring him before the court to face legitimate charges,” Marshal argued.
However, police counsel Garba Audu opposed the motion, stating that Darlington had breached his bail conditions. “The police have not violated the court order. The timing during the Christmas holidays must be considered,” Audu said, defending the police’s actions.
Justice Liman, who presided over the case, confirmed that court papers had been properly served to the police, dismissing earlier objections raised by Audu. The judge encouraged the police to release Darlington to his lawyer while awaiting trial, urging all parties to adhere to legal protocols.
Darlington’s lawsuit demands ₦300 million in damages for what he described as his unlawful detention and mistreatment. The artist also seeks an order for his immediate release or for him to be presented in court to face any legitimate charges.
In his legal filings, Darlington’s representatives claimed he endured inhumane conditions and torture during his time in police custody. “Our client was subjected to degrading treatment, which highlights the need for accountability in this matter,” Marshal said.
The criminal trial against Darlington is scheduled to begin on January 15, 2025. The charges of defamation and cyberstalking, allegedly linked to his comments about Burna Boy, will be addressed separately from his lawsuit against the Inspector-General of Police.
