Counsel representing embattled Nigerian singer Darlington Achakpo, fondly called as Speed Darlington, has declared their readiness to fulfill the bail conditions set by the Federal High Court in Abuja.
In a letter dated on the 8th January, 2025, addressed to the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Force Intelligence Bureau (FIB), DIG Galadanchi, the law firm of Deji Adeyanju and Partners disclosed plans to present a surety to meet the imposed requirements.
The drama surrounding Darlington’s legal woes began when Justice Liman, on the 23rd of December , 2024, ordered police authorities to either charge the rapper to court within 48 hours or release him unconditionally. This directive followed Darlington’s arrest on the 27th of November, 2024, during a performance in Owerri, Imo State.
The arrest stemmed from alleged verbal abuse directed at the superstar Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy.
Darlington’s legal team, led by Deji Adeyanju, pointed fingers at Burna Boy, asserting that the Grammy Award winner orchestrated the arrest.
Darlington’s criticism of Burna Boy was reportedly linked to the latter’s association with embattled U.S. rapper Sean “Diddy” Combs, who faces grave accusations of sexual exploitation and human trafficking.
Despite his arrest, Darlington vowed to persist in his critique of Burna Boy, calling attention to the controversies surrounding Diddy.
However, Adeyanju’s legal chamber reminded the DIG that Darlington’s prolonged detention violated the law.
The letter, titled “Re: Unlawful Detention of Darlington Achakpo,” cited the court’s earlier ruling.
The letter read:
“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.”
The case, laden with allegations and legal maneuvers, continues to unfold, drawing the spotlight on the intersection of celebrity feuds and the justice system in Nigeria.