Burna Boy: We’re Arranging to Finalize Speed Darlington’s Bail – Lawyers Notify Police

The legal team representing embattled Nigerian artist Darlington Achakpo, also known as Speed Darlington, has expressed readiness to meet the bail conditions stipulated by the Federal High Court in Abuja.

Deji Adeyanju and Partners, his counsel, confirmed that they would visit the Force Intelligence Bureau (FIB) alongside a surety to comply with the court’s directives. This was stated in a letter dated January 8, 2025, and addressed to Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Galadanchi in Abuja.

The matter dates back to November 27, 2023, when Darlington was arrested during a performance in Owerri, Imo State. The arrest, reportedly linked to alleged verbal attacks against Afrofusion star Burna Boy (real name Damini Ogulu), led to a December 23, 2023, court order by Justice Liman instructing the police to either charge Darlington within 48 hours or release him unconditionally.

Darlington’s arrest allegedly stemmed from criticisms directed at Burna Boy’s association with embattled American rapper Sean “Diddy” Combs, who faces allegations of sexual exploitation and human trafficking. Despite his detention, Darlington has vowed to continue voicing his opinions about the Grammy winner’s connections with Diddy.

Darlington’s lawyers have denounced his prolonged detention as unlawful. In their letter titled “Re: Unlawful Detention of Darlington Achakpo”, they highlighted the court’s directive and expressed concern over delays in honoring bail arrangements.

The letter emphasized:

Justice Liman’s court order mandating Darlington’s release or formal charge.

Attempts by the legal team, including Marshal Abubakar, Esq., to fulfill bail conditions at the FIB on January 7, 2025, which went unanswered.

The counsel reiterated their intent to visit the FIB on January 8, 2025, with a surety to meet the bail requirements and urged DIG Galadanchi to facilitate the process.

Lawyer Dares Burna Boy
In a related development, Speed Darlington’s lawyer, Stan Alieke, has challenged Burna Boy to prove his impartiality by initiating the arrest of socialite Pascal Okechukwu, popularly known as “Chief Priest.”