Speed Darlington vs. Police IGP: Court Date Announced Amid Public Outcry Over Massive Legal Costs!

The Federal High Court in Abuja has postponed the hearing of the ₦300 million fundamental rights enforcement suit filed by singer Darlington Achakpo, popularly known as Speed Darlington.

against the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to January 27. The adjournment came after CSP Audu Garba, counsel for the IGP, requested more time to review a further affidavit submitted by Speed Darlington’s lawyer, Abubakar Marshal, during the proceedings.

During Monday’s session, Marshal informed the court that the hearing was set to address the substantive application regarding his client’s fundamental rights. He explained that while the police had filed a counter-affidavit on Friday, a further affidavit had been filed in response on the day of the hearing.

Garba acknowledged the submission of the counter-affidavit but claimed he had not received the further affidavit. Upon inquiry by Justice Musa Liman, Marshal confirmed the affidavit was filed that morning. The court permitted Marshal to serve Garba a copy of the document during the session.

When Marshal sought to proceed with the application, Garba objected, requesting additional time to review the new affidavit for any fresh legal or factual issues. Justice Liman subsequently adjourned the case to January 27 for argument adoption.

Speed Darlington filed the ₦300 million lawsuit against the IGP, alleging unlawful detention. The case stems from a December 23, 2024, court order directing the police to either charge him or release him within 48 hours. Previously, the Federal High Court ordered the Nigerian police to release Darlington pending the substantive hearing, with Abubakar Marshal acting as his surety.

The singer, aged 39, was arrested in Lagos over allegations of defamation and cyberstalking related to comments he made about Burna Boy. He was granted bail on October 8, 2024.

At the resumed hearing, Marshal emphasized that the session was meant to address his client’s motion to enforce his fundamental rights. While Garba initially claimed he was not served the necessary documents, the court confirmed that service had been effected.

Marshal also urged the court to direct the police to release Darlington on bail. However, Garba opposed the request, citing an ongoing criminal case and alleging that Darlington had previously jumped bail. He further noted that compliance with the court’s previous order was delayed due to the Christmas holiday period.