Controversial Nigerian rapper Darlington Achakpo, popularly known as Speed Darlington, has been granted bail following his arrest on November 27, 2024, during a performance in Owerri, Imo State. His lawyer, Stanley Alieke, confirmed the development on Instagram, stating, “Apki has been granted bail by the court.”
The arrest was reportedly linked to allegations of defamation against Afrofusion star Burna Boy. Speed Darlington had previously made comments about Burna Boy’s association with embattled U.S. rapper Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs, who is facing multiple charges for sexual exploitation and human trafficking.
Human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju, also representing Speed Darlington, confirmed Burna Boy’s involvement in the arrest. Adeyanju had earlier stated that the singer would be arraigned within 48 hours or released on bail, emphasizing that while issues around injustice may take time, justice would prevail.
Speed Darlington’s legal troubles began in October when he was first arrested over a petition filed by Burna Boy, alleging defamation and cyberstalking. He was released on bail after five days in detention but was re-arrested in November on allegations of jumping bail.
The case has sparked discussions about the use of law enforcement in personal disputes and the boundaries of free speech within Nigeria’s entertainment industry. As the legal proceedings continue, supporters of Speed Darlington advocate for due process and caution against the misuse of legal mechanisms to settle personal scores.
For more detailed information, please refer to the original report by Punch Newspapers.
