The Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned 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 for hearing.
The adjournment followed a request by CSP Audu Garba, counsel for the IGP, seeking additional time to review a further affidavit served by Speed Darlington’s lawyer, Abubakar Marshal, in court.
During Monday’s proceedings, Marshal informed the court that the session was set to hear the substantive application for the enforcement of his client’s fundamental rights. He noted that the police had filed their counter-affidavit on Friday, prompting the filing of a further affidavit in response.
Garba acknowledged the submission of the counter-affidavit but stated he had not yet received the further affidavit. When Justice Musa Liman inquired about the timing of the filing, Marshal confirmed, “It was filed this morning, my lord.” With the court’s permission, Marshal served Garba a copy of the document in court.
However, when Marshal attempted to proceed with the application, Garba objected, requesting additional time to review the new affidavit for any potential new legal or factual issues requiring a response. Justice Liman subsequently adjourned the matter to January 27 for the adoption of arguments.
Speed Darlington’s ₦300 million suit against the IGP challenges his alleged unlawful detention. The case originated from a December 23, 2024, court order directing the police to charge him or release him within 48 hours.
Previously, the Federal High Court instructed the Nigerian police to immediately release Darlington pending the hearing of the substantive matter. The court also directed that Abubakar Marshal, Esq., act as surety for Darlington, also known as Akpi.
Darlington, aged 39, was arrested in Lagos on allegations of defamation and cyberstalking related to his comments about Burna Boy. He was later granted bail on October 8, 2024.
At the resumed hearing, Marshal reiterated that the session was intended to address the motion to enforce Darlington’s rights. Although Garba initially claimed he had not been served the necessary documents, the court confirmed service.
Marshal also requested the court to direct the police to release his client on bail. However, Garba opposed this request, citing an ongoing criminal charge and alleging that Darlington had jumped bail. He further stated that the police’s compliance with the court’s previous order was affected by the timing during the Christmas holiday.
Darlington’s suit seeks damages for alleged unlawful detention and requests an order for his immediate release or presentation before the court. His legal team also claims he was subjected to torture and inhumane treatment during his detention.