Nigerian singer Speed Darlington has filed a lawsuit seeking N300 million in damages against the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for what he claims was his unlawful detention. The case, which is a fundamental rights enforcement suit, is set to be heard by the Federal High Court in Abuja on January 13, 2025.
The court date was scheduled following a request from Darlington’s lawyer, Abubakar Marshal, who asked for an adjournment to give the police’s counsel, Garba Audu, time to review the documents served. This case arises from a court order issued on December 23, 2024, which instructed the police to either charge Darlington or release him within 48 hours.
Earlier reports had indicated that the Federal High Court had ordered the Nigerian police to release Darlington immediately pending the hearing of the main case. The court also directed that Abubakar Marshal, Esq. serve as surety for Darlington.
Deji Adeyanju, Darlington’s legal representative, confirmed this development in a post on social media, emphasizing the importance of the court’s decision.
Speed Darlington, 39, was arrested in Lagos on December 23, 2024, following allegations of defamation and cyberstalking related to his comments about Burna Boy. He was granted bail on October 8, 2024, but his legal battle continued. At the hearing, Marshal informed the court that they were prepared to proceed with a motion to enforce Darlington’s rights.
Police counsel Garba Audu claimed he had not received the necessary documents, though the court confirmed service had been made. Marshal also requested that the police release Darlington on bail, a motion that Audu opposed, citing ongoing criminal charges against the singer. Audu explained that Darlington had previously violated his bail terms, although the police had not defied the court’s earlier order, which coincided with the Christmas holiday.
The singer’s trial is scheduled for January 15, 2025, but Justice Liman advised that Darlington be released to his lawyer in the meantime. Darlington’s lawsuit seeks damages for unlawful detention and requests an order for his immediate release or production in court. His legal team also alleges that he was subjected to torture and inhumane treatment during his time in detention.
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Source: Chronicles Reporters