Alleged defamation: Speed Darlington files N300 million suit against IGP over alleged unlawful detention

Nigerian rapper Darlington Okoye, better known as Speed Darlington, has filed a N300million fundamental rights enforcement suit against the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, over his alleged unlawful detention.

The Federal High Court in Abuja set January 13 for the hearing of Speed Darlington’s case, following a request from his lawyer, Abubakar Marshal, for an adjournment.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the delay will give the police’s lawyer, Garba Audu, time to review and respond to the documents served.

This case originates from a court order on December 23, 2024, which mandated the police to either charge Darlington or release him within 48 hours.

The court also instructed the Nigerian police to comply with the release order pending the hearing of the main case. Additionally, it directed that Abubakar Marshal, Esq. act as a surety for Akpi.

Darlington, 39, was detained in Lagos over allegations of defamation and cyberstalking related to his comments about Burna Boy.

In his lawsuit, Darlington is seeking compensation for unlawful detention and demands an order for his immediate release or for him to be brought before the court.

His legal team has claimed that he was subjected to torture and mistreatment during his detention.