NIGERIA: Counsel Defends Speed Darlington Over Arrest, Denies Bail Jump Allegation

By Utebor Paul, Nigeria

The legal counsel to singer Darlington Okoye, popularly known as Speed Darlington, has clarified the circumstances surrounding his recent arrest by the police.

In a statement issued by his lawyer, Stan Alieke, the counsel refuted claims that the artist jumped bail, asserting that his arrest was unwarranted and a violation of his rights.

According to Alieke, Speed Darlington was taken into custody following a performance in Owerri, reportedly on the orders of the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Force Intelligence Bureau. The arrest was based on allegations that the singer had failed to meet the conditions of his bail.

The lawyer explained that Speed Darlington was granted administrative bail on October 8, 2024, after being detained for five days in connection with an incident involving fellow artist Burna Boy. The bail followed what Alieke described as an “illegal detention” after the singer was transferred from Lagos to Abuja.

“Our client was given a date to report back but was unable to comply due to a medical emergency that necessitated urgent travel abroad for treatment,” Alieke stated.

The lawyer emphasised that Speed Darlington had planned to return to Abuja following his Owerri performance in coordination with his legal team and police officers. “It was never his intention to jump bail,” Alieke added.

Describing the arrest as an unnecessary and heavy-handed action, the lawyer criticised the police for what he termed a deliberate attempt to embarrass his client. “This conduct is both unwarranted and a misuse of police authority,” Alieke said.

He called on the authorities to respect the rights of his client and ensure that justice is served without bias or harassment.