The Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday, 13th January, adjourned the N300 million fundamental rights enforcement suit filed by singer Darlington Achakpo, popularly known as Speed Darlington, against the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to 27th January for hearing.
Justice Musa Liman adjourned the case following a request from CSP Audu Garba, counsel for the IGP, for a brief postponement. Garba sought more time to review a further affidavit served by Speed Darlington’s lawyer, Abubakar Marshal, in court.
At the hearing, Marshal informed the court that the matter was intended for the hearing of the substantive application for the enforcement of his client’s fundamental rights. He noted that the police had served their counter-affidavit on them on Friday, and a further affidavit had since been filed in response.
Garba acknowledged filing the counter-affidavit but stated that he had not yet received the further affidavit. Upon inquiry from Justice Liman, Marshal revealed that the further affidavit had been filed that morning. With the court’s permission, Marshal then served Garba with a copy of the further affidavit.
When Marshal sought to proceed with the application, Garba objected, requesting more time to review the new affidavit to determine if it raised any new issues of fact or law that would require a response.
Justice Liman subsequently adjourned the case until 27th January for the adoption of arguments.
It was reported that Speed Darlington filed a N300 million fundamental rights enforcement suit against the IGP over his alleged unlawful detention.
The case stems from a 23rd December 2024 court order that required the police to either charge Speed Darlington or release him within 48 hours.
The Federal High Court directed the Nigerian police to comply with the order to release Darlington immediately pending the hearing of the substantive matter. The court further directed Abubakar Marshal, Esq. to stand as surety to Speed Darlington, also known as Akpi.
Darlington, 39, was arrested in Lagos on allegations of defamation and cyberstalking, related to his comments about Burna Boy. He was later granted bail on 8th October 2024.
At the resumed hearing, Marshal informed the court that the matter was set for hearing of the motion to enforce Darlington’s rights. Audu claimed he had not been served with the papers, but the court confirmed service.
Marshal also asked the court to direct the police to release his client on bail, which Audu opposed, citing an ongoing criminal charge against the singer. Audu explained that Darlington had jumped bail, though the police had not defied the court order, given the timing during the Christmas holiday.
Darlington’s suit seeks damages for the unlawful detention and requests an order for his immediate release or production before the court. His legal team alleged that he was subjected to torture and inhumane treatment during his detention.
