By John Audu,Abuja
The Federal High Court has ordered the immediate release of Nigerian singer Speed Darlington, also known as Akpi, following his detention in a defamation case involving fellow musician Burna Boy.
The court ruled on Monday, January 6, 2025, that Darlington’s arrest and detention constituted a “gross violation” of his fundamental rights, including freedom of expression and movement.
Court Order and Police Defiance:
The court initially ordered Darlington’s release on December 23, 2024, instructing the Nigerian Police to either charge him within 48 hours or release him unconditionally. However, the police defied this order, prompting strong condemnation from Darlington’s legal team.
Darlington’s lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, described the police’s defiance as “the highest form of disrespect to the judiciary.” The suit filed by Darlington’s legal team argued that his detention violated his fundamental human rights under the Nigerian Constitution.
OBSERVERS TIMES recalled that despite the court order, Darlington’s legal team, vowed to continue pursuing the case to ensure justice is served and hold those responsible for his unlawful detention accountable.
