A Federal High Court in Abuja has set January 13, 2025, for the hearing of a N300 million fundamental rights enforcement suit filed by embattled singer, Darlington Achakpo, popularly known as Speed Darlington, against the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun.
TheNewsGuru reports that Justice Musa Liman fixed the date after Speed Darlington’s counsel Abubakar Marshal requested an adjournment to allow the IG’s lawyer, Garba Audu, more time to review and respond to the documents served in court.
According to report, Justice Liman in December 23, 2024 ordered the Inspector-General of Police to either charge Speed Darlington to court or release him on bail unconditionally within 48 hours.
However, police lawyers argued that criminal charges against the singer are scheduled for hearing on January 15, 2025 and explained delays were due to the holiday season and administrative processes.
Recall, the singer’s arrest stems from allegations of defamation and cyberstalking regarding his colleague, Burna Boy.
During Monday’s proceedings, Marshal informed the court of the scheduled hearing of the originating motion on notice for the enforcement of Speed Darlington’s fundamental rights. Although Audu initially claimed he had not received the relevant legal documents, the court confirmed through its records that the police had been served. Marshal was directed to provide Audu with a copy in court
Audu responded that the police had already filed a criminal charge against Speed Darlington before the singer sought his release through the ex-parte motion. Audu further alleged that Speed Darlington had jumped administrative bail, prompting the ongoing legal processes.
The police lawyer noted that the criminal charge, filed before Justice Ekerete Akpan, had been delayed and is now scheduled for January 15, 2025. He explained that the Christmas holiday period made it challenging to comply with the court’s initial order promptly.
Marshal, on behalf of Speed Darlington, requested the court to release the singer pending his arraignment. He assured the court of his client’s presence at the hearing if granted bail. Audu, however, opposed the application claiming Speed Darlington had breached bail conditions.
Despite the opposition, Justice Liman suggested that the police release the singer to Marshal, as he had committed to ensuring Speed Darlington’s presence in court.
In his suit, Speed Darlington seeks the immediate release from detention, or a court order compelling the police to bring him before the court.
He is also demanding N300 million in damages for unlawful detention, mistreatment and violation of his fundamental rights.
The case will proceed with a full hearing on January 13.