Nigerian rapper Speed Darlington faces a new setback as his lawyer, Stanley Alieke of Law Capitol, announced on January 26, 2025, that they have ceased representing him. This development follows Darlington’s recent release from a two-month detention over allegations of defamation and cyberstalking involving fellow artist Burna Boy.
The conflict began in October 2024 when Darlington mocked Burna Boy’s association with American rapper Diddy, who was embroiled in legal issues at the time. This led to Darlington’s arrest on November 27, 2024, during a performance in Owerri. He was granted bail on January 15, 2025, under stringent conditions, including a ₦20 million bond and the surrender of his passport. His trial is scheduled for March 18, 2025.
In a recent video, Darlington addressed his supporters, stating, “If you are tired of supporting, you get lost.” He also criticized Burna Boy for allegedly prolonging his detention, despite Burna Boy’s public stance against police brutality.
Burna Boy responded with a warning: “If you misbehave again, you’ll go back to where you came from! And this time around, there will be no mercy!”
The escalating feud between these artists highlights the complex interplay between public personas and legal accountability in the Nigerian music industry.
