The Federal High Court in Abuja has postponed until 27 the ₦300 million suit to enforce the fundamental rights of singer Darlington Achakpo, popularly known as Speed Darlington, against the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun January for hearing.
The adjournment followed a request by CSP Audu Garba, counsel to the IGP, for additional time to review a further affidavit by Speed Darlington’s lawyer, Abubakar Marshal, in court.
During Monday’s proceedings, Marshal informed the court that the hearing was scheduled to hear his client’s substantive request for enforcement of his client’s fundamental rights. He noted that the police filed a counter affidavit on Friday, prompting the filing of a fresh affidavit in response.
Garba acknowledged the filing of the counter-affidavit, but stated that he had not yet received the further affidavit. When Judge Musa Liman inquired about the time of the filing, Marshal confirmed: “It was filed this morning, my lord.” With the court’s permission, Marshal Garba presented a copy of the document to the court.
However, when Marshal attempted to proceed with the application, Garba objected and requested additional time to review the new affidavit for any potential new legal or factual issues requiring a response. Judge Liman then adjourned the case to January 27 for the approval of arguments.
Speed Darlington’s ₦300 million lawsuit against the IGP challenges his alleged unlawful detention. The case stemmed from a December 23, 2024 court order directing police to charge him or release him within 48 hours.
Earlier, the Federal High Court directed the Nigerian Police to immediately release Darlington pending the hearing of the substantive case. The court also directed that Abubakar Marshal, Esq., act as surety for Darlington, alias Akpi.
Darlington, 39, was arrested in Lagos on charges of defamation and cyberstalking in relation to his comments on Burna boy. He was later granted bail on October 8, 2024.
During the resumed hearing, Marshal reiterated that the purpose of the session was to consider the motion to enforce Darlington’s rights. Although Garba initially claimed that he had not been served with the necessary documents, the court upheld the service.
Marshal also requested the court to direct the police to release his client on bail. However, Garba opposed this request, citing a pending criminal charge and claiming that Darlington had his bail suspended. He further stated that police compliance with the court’s previous order was affected by the timing during the Christmas holidays.
Darlington’s lawsuit seeks damages for alleged unlawful detention and asks for an order for immediate release or presentation in court. His legal team also claims that he was tortured and inhumanely treated during his detention.
