Nigerian musician Darlington Okoye, popularly known as Speed Darlington, is reportedly under pressure from police authorities to make a public apology to fellow artist Damini Ogulu, known as Burna Boy. This development follows Darlington’s controversial detention, which human rights activists have criticized as unjust and politically motivated.
Sources have revealed that the police, citing Burna Boy’s status as a “superstar,” are urging Darlington to record a video apologizing to the Afrobeat singer. “The police are pressuring Darlington to apologize publicly to Burna Boy, saying he cannot defeat someone of Burna Boyโs stature,” a source close to the matter disclosed.
Darlington was initially arrested in Owerri, Imo State, and later transferred to Abuja. Reports suggest the move was orchestrated to intensify his punishment. He is currently held at the Force Intelligence Department (FID) under the supervision of Deputy Inspector-General Dasuki Galadanchi, who has reportedly taken personal interest in the case.
The arrest followed a petition allegedly filed by Burna Boy accusing Darlington of cyberstalking. The musician’s lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, criticized the arrest, arguing that it lacked a legal basis. According to Adeyanju, police officials at the Intelligence Response Team in Abuja have refused to release the petition but allowed him to read its contents.
Adeyanju also accused Burna Boy of hypocrisy, stating that the artist, known for producing music condemning oppression, has now become an oppressor himself. โBurna Boy, who sings against oppression, is now using the police to harass Speed Darlington,โ Adeyanju wrote on social media.
The detention of Speed Darlington has sparked outrage, with human rights advocates condemning the use of police resources to settle personal disputes. Critics argue that the situation reflects the misuse of power and influence in Nigeriaโs justice system.
Efforts are ongoing to secure Darlingtonโs release on bail. Adeyanju noted that the detained musician remains in good spirits despite the situation, adding, โWe are working to ensure his release as soon as possible.โ
The case has drawn widespread attention, fueling debates about freedom of expression and the role of the police in mediating personal conflicts. Observers are questioning why significant police resources are being directed at the case while more pressing security challenges remain unresolved across the country.
The Nigerian police are yet to issue an official statement on the matter, while Burna Boy has not publicly addressed the allegations of cyberstalking or the subsequent detention of Speed Darlington.
This case highlights ongoing concerns about celebrity influence over public institutions and the challenges of ensuring justice in Nigeria’s complex legal environment.
