Speed Darlington’s Continued Detention: A Legal Battle with DIG
Nigerian singer Darlington Okoye, known as Speed Darlington, has petitioned Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Johnson Babatunde Kokumo over his continued detention, alleging non-compliance with court orders for his release.
Speed Darlington was arrested in November 2024 on allegations of defamation and cyberstalking against fellow artist Burna Boy. Following his arrest in Lagos, he was transferred to Abuja and detained by the Inspector General of Police’s Intelligence Response Team in Guzape. Although initially released, he was re-arrested during a performance in Owerri, Imo State.
On January 6, 2025, the court reiterated its order for his release, urging police authorities to release him to his lead counsel, Marshal Abubakar, who would ensure his appearance at trial.
Despite this, Speed Darlington remains in custody. His legal team, including human rights activist Deji Adeyanju, has expressed frustration over the police’s non-compliance, citing unanswered calls and messages to DIG Kokumo.
In response, Speed Darlington has filed a ₦300 million fundamental rights enforcement suit against the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, over his alleged unlawful detention. The Federal High Court in Abuja has scheduled a hearing for January 13, 2025.