Controversial Nigerian rapper Darlington Okoye, popularly known as Speed Darlington or “Akpi,” has been granted bail by the Nigeria Police Force.
The development was confirmed by his lawyer, Stanley Alieke, who announced the news via Instagram on Monday, writing, “Akpi has been granted bail by the court.”
Speed Darlington was arrested on November 27 while performing at a show in Owerri, Imo State. His detention was linked to alleged defamatory statements against Grammy award-winning artist Damini Ogulu, also known as Burna Boy.
A member of his legal team, Deji Adeyanju, had previously claimed that Burna Boy instigated the rapper’s arrest. According to Adeyanju, the dispute stemmed from allegations about Burna Boy’s purported controversial relationships, including one with U.S. rapper Sean “Diddy” Combs, who has recently faced accusations of sexual exploitation and human trafficking.
Adeyanju had earlier demanded that Speed Darlington be either arraigned within 48 hours or released, citing issues of injustice. “Our FREP application for Speed Darlington has been granted by the court. He is to be arraigned within 48 hours or released. Issues around injustice may take time, but justice will always prevail,” Adeyanju stated.