A Lagos High Court has adjourned proceedings in the ₦300 million defamation lawsuit filed by Nigerian musician Speed Darlington against the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Usman Baba, over allegations of misconduct and violation of the artist’s rights. The case, which has garnered significant public attention, was adjourned today to allow for additional documentation and response from the defendant’s legal team.
Speed Darlington, whose real name is Darlington Okoye, accused the IGP and the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) of unlawfully detaining and defaming him following an incident last year. According to the musician, police officers, acting under the IGP’s directives, wrongfully arrested him during an altercation at a public event and publicly maligned his character in the media.
The ₦300 million claim is for damages related to the alleged harm caused to his reputation, emotional distress, and loss of business opportunities due to the police’s actions. The plaintiff’s lawyer argued that the IGP failed to ensure accountability within the NPF, which they believe has caused serious reputational damage to the artist.
In a brief statement outside the court, Speed Darlington expressed optimism about the ongoing legal process, asserting that his lawsuit was a stand for justice and the protection of individual rights in Nigeria.
“I am not just fighting for myself,” he said. “I am standing for every Nigerian who has ever been wronged by people in power. The truth will come out.”
Legal representatives for the IGP, who were present at today’s hearing, have yet to comment on the matter. The adjournment was requested to allow further investigations into the incident, and the case is expected to resume in March 2025.
As the legal battle continues, all eyes will be on how this high-profile case may impact public perception of both the Nigerian Police Force and public figures’ rights within the country’s legal framework.
source: naijanews.com