Controversial rapper Darlington Achakpo, popularly known as Speed Darlington, has been granted bail after spending close to a month in police detention. His lawyer, Stanley Alieke, announced the development on Instagram on Monday, December 23, 2024, but withheld further details.
Darlington was arrested on November 27 during a performance in Owerri, Imo State, following allegations of defamation and abuse directed at Grammy award-winning musician Damini Ogulu, better known as Burna Boy. The arrest was reportedly linked to Darlington’s criticism of Burna Boy’s association with embattled American rapper Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs, who faces multiple charges, including sexual exploitation and human trafficking.
According to Darlington’s legal team, represented by lawyers Stanley Alieke and Deji Adeyanju, Burna Boy’s influence played a role in the arrest. Darlington had publicly vowed to continue calling out Burna Boy for his ties to Diddy, despite the controversies.
Adeyanju confirmed the court’s decision to grant bail and applauded the move as a step towards justice. “Our FREP application for Speed Darlington has been granted. He is to be arraigned within 48 hours or released,” he stated earlier in the process.
The case has sparked debates on free speech, defamation, and the influence of high-profile figures on judicial processes, keeping fans and critics closely watching developments.
