In a dramatic turn of events, the Federal High Court has ordered the immediate release of Nigerian singer Speed Darlington, popularly known as Akpi, following his contentious detention in connection to a defamation case involving Grammy-winning artist Burna Boy. The court’s decision underscores its commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting citizens’ fundamental rights.
Justice M. S. Liman, presiding over the case, directed the Nigerian Police to comply with the order immediately, pending the hearing of the substantive matter. The court further mandated Abubakar Marshal, Esq., to stand as surety for Darlington’s release.
The order comes amidst public outcry and criticism of the police’s refusal to obey the initial directive issued on December 23, 2024, which declared Darlington’s detention unlawful. Deji Adeyanju, the artist’s lawyer, confirmed the new development in a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, stating:
“The Federal High Court has directed the Nigerian Police to comply with the order to release Speed Darlington immediately pending the hearing of the substantive matter. The court further directs Abubakar Marshal, Esq. to stand as surety to Akpi.”
Despite this, Adeyanju lambasted the Nigerian Police for their blatant disregard of the court’s authority, accusing them of undermining the judiciary’s integrity. “This is the highest form of disrespect to the judiciary,” he lamented, referencing the prolonged detention of Darlington despite the explicit court ruling.
The controversy began when Sahara Reporters first reported on December 26, 2024, that the police had defied a Federal High Court order to release the singer. The court had earlier ruled that Darlington’s arrest and detention were unconstitutional, violating his fundamental rights to dignity, liberty, expression, and movement, as enshrined in Chapter IV of the Nigerian Constitution.
Justice Liman had given the Inspector General of Police a 48-hour ultimatum to either charge the singer to court or release him unconditionally. The court emphasized that Darlington’s continued detention constituted “a gross violation” of his fundamental human rights.
The saga has reignited public discourse on police accountability and respect for the judiciary in Nigeria. Speed Darlington, known for his bold and unconventional personality, has yet to make an official statement since the court’s order, but his fans and supporters are celebrating this victory as a step towards justice.
Meanwhile, critics argue that this defamation case with Burna Boy is emblematic of a larger issue in the Nigerian entertainment industry—where power dynamics often blur the lines between justice and oppression.
As the substantive hearing looms, the case has captured the nation’s attention, with many hoping it will serve as a precedent for upholding the rule of law and protecting citizens from abuse of power.
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