Nigerian musician Darlington Achakpo, better known as Speed Darlington or Akpi, has been granted bail by the Federal High Court in Abuja following his detention since November 27, 2024. The bail, set at N20 million, comes with the requirement for one surety in the same amount.
Justice Ekerete Akpan presided over the case and granted bail after Speed Darlington pleaded not guilty to a two-count cybercrime charge filed by the Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun. The charges stem from accusations involving statements made about fellow artist Damini Ogulu, better known as Burna Boy, which caused a stir in the Nigerian music industry.
The surety must be a Level 10 civil servant residing in Abuja and working either within the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) or as a federal employee. Additionally, the surety is required to provide evidence of financial means, including letters of appointment and promotion, which will be verified by the Deputy Chief Registrar of the court. The residential address of the surety will also be subjected to verification.
While the bail has been granted, Speed Darlington will remain in custody at Kuje prison until all conditions are met. The case has been adjourned until March 18, 2025, for trial. This follows an earlier release and re-arrest of the artist, who had been initially released on bail in October 2024 but was later re-arrested for breaching the terms of his administrative bail.
The charges against Speed Darlington arose after he made controversial remarks about Burna Boy’s alleged relationship with American musician Sean Combs (P. Diddy), suggesting that it played a role in Burna Boy’s Grammy win. The case has attracted widespread media attention, further igniting the ongoing rivalry in the Nigerian music scene.
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