Speed Darlington Released on Bail After Month-Long Detention

Nigerian rapper Speed Darlington (Akpi), whose real name is Darlington Okoye, has been granted bail after spending a month in detention. His lawyer, Stan Alieke, announced the news on Instagram, stating that Darlington was released on bail by the court on Monday.

Alieke, who did not provide details of the bail condition, wrote, “Apki has been granted bail by the court.”

Darlington’s troubles began on November 27 when he was arrested during a performance in Owerri, Imo State. This marked his second detention within two months. According to his lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, the arrest was prompted by a petition filed by Grammy Award-winning artist Burna Boy.

The controversy surrounding Darlington’s arrest stems from a viral video in which he suggested that Burna Boy may have had sexual relations with US rapper Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs to influence his Grammy win for “Best Global Music Album” for his “Twice As Tall” album in 2021.

Darlington was formally charged in court on December 9, but his arraignment was delayed due to a judges’ conference and the impending festive season shutdown. With his release on bail, fans are eagerly awaiting his return to the music scene.