Controversial Nigerian singer and rapper Speed Darlington, popularly known as AKPI, has been released from detention.
The court granted him bail, and the news was shared on today, December 23, 2024, through his lawyer’s Instagram account.
Stanley Alieke, counsel for the renowned and controversial artist, whose real name is Darlington Achakpo Okoye, announced the update in a post.
“Apki has been granted bail by the court.”
Speed Darlington’s release comes nearly a month after his second arrest, which occurred just two months after his first detention, during which he spent five days in custody.
Human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju confirmed the arrest on his Twitter (formerly X) page on Wednesday, November 27, 2024.
The Nigerian police apprehended Speed Darlington while he was performing at a show in Owerri, Imo State.
Deji Adeyanju also claimed that Burna Boy allegedly ordered the arrest of musician and content creator Speed Darlington over accusations of defamation.
The conflict between Burna Boy and Speed Darlington is believed to stem from videos Darlington made discussing embattled American music mogul Diddy’s relationship with Burna Boy.
On October 17, 2024, a viral video surfaced online in which Speed Darlington recounted his experience in police custody, alleging violations of his rights.
The rapper stated,
“The police violated my civil and human rights by denying me the chance to contact my family and lawyer. The law permits detention for only two days, but I was held for four days without any opportunity to reach out to my people.”
