Recall that the Speed Darlington was arrested for defaming Burna Boy.![Speed Darlington, Burna Boy [Notjustok]](https://www.pulse.ng/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimage.api.sportal365.com%2Fprocess%2F%2Fsmp-images-production%2Fpulse.ng%2F27112024%2Fb42bd551-3e5a-4aaa-8893-52805182304b.jpg&w=3840&q=75)
Speed Darlington, Burna Boy [Notjustok]
Weeks after Nigerian artist Speed Darlington was arrested and detained, his legal representative has suggested that powerful figures may be behind the delay in his release. Deji Adeyanju, the human rights lawyer representing Darlington, previously hinted that Afrobeats star Burna Boy might be connected to the rapper’s arrest, although no official confirmation has been made. In an interview with The Cable regarding Darlington’s detention, Adeyanju revealed that the police had denied them the chance to post bail.
“The reason Speed Darlington hasn’t been released is that the police refuse to grant him administrative bail. When we asked for their reason, they claimed he jumped bail previously,” Adeyanju explained.
He also noted that several influential individuals appeared to be involved in the case. “It’s no secret that a lot of high-powered people are interested in this matter. We are now making plans to apply for court bail. The dates set for his court arraignment are January 14th and 15th next year,” he added.
Despite these setbacks, Adeyanju emphasized the legal team’s determination to ensure Darlington isn’t held through the holiday season. “The court claims it is already scheduled for the year. We even attempted to bring him to court last Thursday. The law says they cannot hear the case if it’s not on the court’s list.”
“We are doing everything we can to make sure he doesn’t spend Christmas and New Year’s in detention. We’re filing a motion and will be in court again tomorrow,” he stated.
Looking ahead, Adeyanju discussed their next steps and the team’s focus on securing Darlington’s release. “We will apply ex-parte, and hopefully, after tomorrow, he’ll be granted bail. The delay is due to the lack of a proper court schedule. Once he’s arraigned, there’s no reason why bail won’t be granted. No judge would deny it, especially after he’s been in detention for four weeks over a civil matter.”
He concluded by expressing confusion over why Darlington has been denied administrative bail, suggesting that higher powers are influencing the situation. “The reason he hasn’t been granted bail is beyond my understanding. It’s clear that some high-profile individuals are involved in this matter,” he said.
