Court Orders Immediate Release Of Nigerian Singer Speed Darlington Amid Defamation Case With Burna Boy
The court ruled that Darlington’s arrest and detention constituted “a gross violation” of his rights to dignity, liberty, expression, and movement under Chapter IV of the Nigerian Constitution.
The Federal High Court has directed the Nigerian police to comply with the order to release popular singer, Speed Darlington, also known as Akpi, immediately pending the hearing of the substantive matter.
The court further directs Abubakar Marshal, Esq. to stand as surety to Akpi.
Deji Adeyanju, Darlington’s lawyer, confirmed this development in an X post on Monday, highlighting the significance of the court’s decision.
He stated, “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.”
Meanwhile, SaharaReporters reported on Thursday, December 26, 2024 that despite an explicit order from the Federal High Court in Abuja, the Nigerian police had refused to release Speed Darlington.
The court ruled on Monday, December 23, 2024, that Darlington’s detention was unlawful and violated his fundamental human rights.
Lamenting in an X post, Adeyanju, described the act as the utmost level of disrespect towards the judiciary.
“The Nigerian Police have refused to release Speed Darlington a.k.a AKPI despite the explicit order of the Federal High Court to do so. This is the highest form of disrespect to the judiciary,” Adeyanju wrote.
The Federal High Court, presided over by Justice M. S. Liman, ordered the Inspector General of Police to either charge Darlington to court within 48 hours or release him unconditionally.
The court ruled that Darlington’s arrest and detention constituted “a gross violation” of his rights to dignity, liberty, expression, and movement under Chapter IV of the Nigerian Constitution.
The suit, filed under FHC/ABJ/CS/1832/2024, also sought a declaration condemning the continuous detention of the singer without being presented before a court of competent jurisdiction.
Justice Liman directed the police to comply immediately, stating: “The Applicant is to be charged to court within 48 hours or released unconditionally before the hearing of the substantial application.”
The case was adjourned to January 6, 2025 for further hearing.
Speed Darlington’s legal team, led by Marshall Abubakar, vowed to pursue the case until justice is served.
“We are committed to ensuring his release and holding those responsible for his unlawful detention accountable,” Abubakar had declared.
