The Federal High Court in Abuja has issued a second directive for the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to comply with court orders and release Nigerian artiste Darlington Achakpo, popularly known as Speed Darlington.
Justice Musa Liman on Monday reiterated the order, emphasizing that Mr. Achakpo, who has been detained for weeks, should be handed over to his legal team. The case involves a controversial defamation lawsuit filed by Grammy award-winning singer Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy.
Despite an earlier ruling in December 2024 for Mr. Achakpo’s release, the police have yet to comply. Justice Liman’s latest directive also stipulated that Mr. Achakpo be produced in court to enable his lawyer, Marshall Abubakar, to act as surety for subsequent hearings.
However, hours after the Monday court ruling, the police continued to delay the artiste’s release, citing the need to “contact” Mr. Abubakar. By 3:00 p.m. the same day, there was still no progress, raising concerns about the police’s disregard for judicial authority under Mr. Egbetokun’s leadership.
Controversial Claims Surrounding Burna Boy and Diddy
The lawsuit stems from alleged defamatory statements linking Burna Boy to rumors of exchanging sexual favors with U.S. music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs to secure his 2021 Grammy win for the album Twice as Tall, which Diddy executive produced.
In a September 2023 social media post, Diddy celebrated his collaboration with Burna Boy, stating, “I executive produced his Grammy Award-winning album Twice As Tall.” He further emphasized their strong bond, calling Burna Boy his “brother” developed during the pandemic.
The allegations were fueled by Lil Rod, a producer who claimed that Diddy pressured him and others for sexual favors in exchange for Grammy success. Diddy, who was arrested in September 2024, is currently facing multiple lawsuits and criminal charges, including sex trafficking and transportation for prostitution.
Public Reactions
The detention of Speed Darlington has sparked mixed reactions. While some supporters of Burna Boy have lauded the lawsuit as a defense of his reputation, others have criticized the decision to involve law enforcement in a civil matter, leaving the artiste behind bars during the festive season.
Observers have called for swift action to uphold the rule of law and ensure that Mr. Achakpo receives a fair trial without further delays.