The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has come under fire for failing to comply with a Federal High Court order mandating the release of detained singer Darlington Achakpo, popularly known as Speed Darlington.
Despite the court’s directive on Monday, the artist remains in custody as of Wednesday evening, according to his legal team at Femi Falana Chambers.
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Justice Musa Liman had ruled on an ex-parte motion filed by Darlington’s counsel, David Ihuoma, ordering the IGP to either release the singer unconditionally or formally charge him to court within 48 hours. The case was adjourned to January 6, 2025, for further hearing.
The artist was initially apprehended in Lagos in October following a petition by musician Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy, over allegations of defamation and cyberstalking. While released on bail on October 8, Darlington was rearrested and transferred to Abuja in November.
In a motion filed on December 13, Darlington’s legal team, led by Deji Adeyanju, alleged that his detention was unlawful. The team sought an order for his release and bail on liberal terms pending the resolution of the substantive motion.
“The continued detention of Mr. Darlington despite a clear court order is a blatant violation of his rights,” Adeyanju said.
The police are yet to comment on the reasons for the non-compliance, leaving many questioning the rule of law and the balance of power between Nigeria’s judiciary and law enforcement agencies.