The Federal High Court in Abuja has set bail conditions for Nigerian artist Darlington Achakpo, also known as Speed Darlington, and his lawyer has stated that he is willing to comply with them.
To meet Darlington’s bond requirements, Deji Adeyanju and Partners said they will be at the Force Intelligence Bureau, or FIB, with a surety.
In a letter dated January 8, 2025, the law firm revealed this information to the Deputy Inspector General of Police, FIB, DIG Galadanchi, in Abuja.
Justice Liman ordered the police to either charge Darlington with a crime within 48 hours or release him unconditionally on December 23, 2023.
This order followed the rapper’s arrest on November 27, 2023, while performing at a show in Owerri, Imo State.
His arrest was linked to an alleged verbal abuse of Afrofusion star Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy.
Darlington’s counsel, Deji Adeyanju, confirmed that Burna Boy was responsible for his arrest.
Darlington had taunted Burna Boy over his affiliation with embattled United States rapper Sean “Diddy” Combs, who is facing multiple charges of sexual exploitation and human trafficking.
This led to Darlington’s initial arrest. Upon returning to Nigeria, Darlington vowed never to back down on criticising the Grammy Award winner because of his association with the embattled Diddy.
However, Adeyanju’s chamber reminded the DIG that Darlington’s continued detention was unlawful.
The letter, titled “Re: Unlawful Detention of Darlington Achakpo,” reads in part:
“As you are no doubt aware, the Federal High Court, per Hon. Justice M. S. Liman, on the 23rd day of December 2024, directed the police authorities to charge our client to court within 48 hours or release him unconditionally.
“A copy of the order is attached herein for ease of reference. On January 6, 2025, the court reiterated the order and urged the police authorities to release him to the lead counsel, our own Marshal Abubakar, who shall produce him in court for trial.
“Although our client was served with a bail term on January 6, 2025 (a copy is attached herein), requesting him to produce a Grade Level 16 Civil Servant, Marshal Abubakar, Esq., and Mazi David Ihuoma, Esq., were at the FIB on January 7, 2025, with a surety to fulfill the bail conditions you imposed.
“However, events and happenings on that day left much to be desired, as several calls and messages sent to you by Marshal Abubakar, Esq., and Deji Adeyanju, Esq., were left unanswered and without response.
“Please note, dear DIG, that Marshal Abubakar, Esq., and Mazi David Ihuoma, Esq., will be coming to the FIB on January 8, 2025, with a surety to fulfill the bail conditions you imposed.
“Whilst anticipating your favourable response and maximum cooperation, please accept our esteemed professional regards.”
