Speed Darlington Battles IGP in Court: N300 Million Lawsuit Over Alleged Torture and Unlawful Detention

By Achimi Muktar

Nigerian rapper and internet sensation Speed Darlington, known for his audacious personality and catchy music, has found himself in the midst of a legal battle. The artist, whose real name is Darlington Achakpo, has filed a staggering N300 million lawsuit against the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, alleging unlawful detention, torture, and maltreatment.

The suit, filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja and marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1832/2024, stems from a series of dramatic events involving accusations of defamation and cyberstalking tied to comments Speed Darlington allegedly made about Grammy-winning artist Burna Boy.

The Allegations

Darlington’s legal team, led by Deji Adeyanju, is not holding back. They claim the rapper was first detained on October 4, 2024, in Lagos, under conditions described as inhumane. According to an affidavit filed by Esther Eyisi, a secretary in Adeyanju’s law firm, Darlington endured five days of torture and maltreatment before being released on administrative bail.

However, trouble resumed on November 27, 2024, when Darlington was rearrested by police, accused of jumping bail—a claim his lawyers vehemently deny. Eyisi contends that Darlington missed a scheduled reporting date due to a medical emergency and prior permission to perform in Owerri, Imo State.

“His continuous detention without arraignment is a gross violation of his constitutional rights,” Eyisi stated, adding that Darlington is the breadwinner for his family and has suffered irreparable harm during his ordeal.

The Lawsuit

In the lawsuit, Darlington is seeking four key orders, including a declaration that his detention violates his fundamental rights as guaranteed by the 1999 Constitution. His legal team is demanding:

His immediate and unconditional release from detention.

Alternatively, an order compelling the police to produce him in court.

N300 million in damages for the alleged torture, unlawful detention, and maltreatment.

An investigation into the circumstances surrounding his arrest and detention.

“This is not just a fight for Speed Darlington but for the fundamental rights of every Nigerian,” Adeyanju said.

Courtroom Drama

During the hearing on January 6, Justice Musa Liman set January 13 for the substantive case’s hearing. The delay was granted to allow the IGP’s legal team, led by Garba Audu, to review the lawsuit.

Justice Liman also addressed the police’s actions, noting that while there was no deliberate disobedience of court orders, Darlington should be released pending arraignment. “I don’t see anything the police will lose if granted bail,” the judge remarked.

Police Counterclaims

The police, however, have a different narrative. According to Audu, Darlington’s current detention stems from a criminal charge already filed in December 2024. The case, which is set to be heard on January 15 before Justice Ekerete Akpan, accuses Darlington of jumping administrative bail.

Audu explained that logistical challenges, including the Christmas holidays, delayed the arraignment process. He assured the court that the police are acting within the confines of the law.

What’s Next?

The stakes are high as Speed Darlington’s fight against alleged police misconduct gains public attention. His fans and supporters see this as a landmark case against systemic abuse, while the police maintain their stance on upholding the law.

As the January 13 court date approaches, all eyes will be on the Federal High Court in Abuja to see whether justice will favor the outspoken rapper or the nation’s law enforcement.

This unfolding legal drama is not just about a celebrity in trouble; it’s a litmus test for the protection of fundamental human rights in Nigeria. Will Speed Darlington’s bold move set a precedent, or will it end as another cautionary tale? Only time will tell.