Nigerian singer Speed Darlington, also known as Akpi, has been charged with defamation by a Federal High Court in Abuja.
The charges stem from a video he made mocking fellow musician Burna Boy and his association with American rapper Diddy, who is facing legal issues over allegations of sexual exploitation.
Darlington has been embroiled in legal troubles recently. He was initially arrested in October following a petition filed by Burna Boy and was later rearrested in November for alleged bail jumping.
His lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, accused the Imo State Police of unlawful detention. However, a recent update from lawyer Stanlie Eke revealed that Darlington has now been formally charged with defamation.
Eke emphasised that slander is a criminal offence in Nigeria and that police intervention in such cases is not justified. He also noted that the delay in charging Darlington was due to a judicial conference and the upcoming court closure for the year.
There are concerns that Darlington may remain in custody until next year.
