Lawyer Deji Adeyanju Alleges Burna Boy’s Involvement in Speed Darlington’s Arrest

Human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju has accused Nigerian music icon Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy, of orchestrating the arrest of his client, musician Darlington Okoye, also known as Speed Darlington or “Akpi,” in Owerri, Imo State.

In a statement shared on his social media, Adeyanju criticized Burna Boy, stating, “Burna Boy behind harassment of Speed Darlington by the police. This is someone who has been singing against oppression and forming junior Fela, now oppressing Akpi.”

Burna Boy behind harassment of Speed Darlington by the police. This is someone who has being singing against oppression and forming junior Fela now oppressing Akpi.

— Comrade Deji Adeyanju (@adeyanjudeji) November 27, 2024

Adeyanju had earlier confirmed Speed Darlington’s arrest through a Facebook post, revealing that the musician was taken into custody by Nigerian police during a show upon his return to the country. The reasons for the arrest were initially unclear.

However, it was later reported that Speed Darlington’s detention was linked to allegations of cyberstalking Burna Boy. He was reportedly arrested in Lagos and transferred to the Intelligence Response Team (IRT) facility in Guzape, Abuja, where he remains in custody.

Adeyanju, who has met with Darlington, stated that the musician was in good spirits and that efforts were underway to secure his release on bail. He criticized the petition allegedly filed by Burna Boy, which he claims lacked sufficient grounds for the arrest.

Despite Adeyanju’s requests, the police investigating the case declined to provide him with a copy of the petition, though they allowed him to review its content.

This development has sparked debate on social media, with many questioning the actions of both the police and Burna Boy, given the latter’s history of advocating against oppression in his music.