“Speed Darlington won’t beg Burna Boy” – Lawyer

Stanley Alieke, legal counsel for Speed Darlington, has made a firm statement on his client’s stance in the ongoing defamation lawsuit against Burna Boy.

Alieke has clarified that Speed Darlington will not offer an apology or seek reconciliation with Burna Boy.

This development follows the high-profile arrest of Speed Darlington in November 2024. He was detained after accusing Burna Boy of inappropriate relations with American rapper and music executive Diddy, who was embroiled in legal troubles.

Case updates and legal standpoints

The trial is set to resume on March 18, 2025, at the Federal High Court in Abuja. This follows Speed Darlington’s release on bail earlier this month.

In an interview with BBC Pidgin, Alieke reiterated that his client has no intention of pleading with Burna Boy.

He stated, “Speed Darlington will never beg Burna Boy. He has suffered too much to even consider it. As his counsel, I would never advise him to beg.

This matter is already in court, and it is up to the court to decide whether Speed Darlington defamed Burna Boy.”

Alieke further argued that apologizing could imply guilt. Burna Boy’s petition alleges that Speed Darlington’s claims damaged his reputation and led to the loss of endorsements.

“If Burna Boy believed his reputation was harmed, he could have pursued civil action instead of a petition. Financial damages could have been sought through that route,” Alieke added.

Financial losses and rights violations

Beyond the defamation claims, Speed Darlington is countering with a N300 million fundamental rights enforcement lawsuit against the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun. This suit seeks redress for alleged unlawful detention and its consequences.

According to Alieke, his client’s extended detention led to significant financial losses. “He missed numerous December and January shows, about 20 events in total, many of which had already been paid for. Promoters have started demanding refunds, ranging from N2 million to N5 million,” the lawyer explained.

Alieke emphasized that the financial losses are only one part of the case. He noted, “Even if the claim increases to N1 billion, it would not match the hardship he endured. Speed Darlington is an artist of international repute who was treated unfairly.”

Harsh detention conditions

Alieke also criticized the conditions of his client’s detention. He alleged that Speed Darlington was held in a facility meant for serious criminals, including Boko Haram suspects and Fulani herdsmen.

“This was unnecessary and unjust. He was kept at the SARS office in Abuja, known as the ‘Abattoir,’ which is no place for someone accused of defamation.”

The lawyer dismissed claims that his behaviour justified such treatment. “Some people argue that his careless words led to this, but that does not excuse the police from holding him for such a long time or exposing him to such conditions.”

The origin of the feud

The conflict between Speed Darlington and Burna Boy dates back to October 2024. Speed Darlington publicly mocked Burna Boy’s association with Diddy, who was under FBI investigation.

This sparked a diss track from Speed Darlington titled ‘Baby Oil,’ which gained popularity on Spotify Nigeria.

The situation escalated when he demanded an apology from Burna Boy’s mother and N12 million in compensation.

On November 27, 2024, the feud reached its peak when he was arrested during a performance in Owerri.

Looking ahead

As both parties prepare for the next court date, the case highlights broader concerns about freedom of expression, the limits of defamation, and the treatment of individuals in detention.

His legal team has vowed to fight for justice and accountability, emphasizing the need for fair treatment in both the courtroom and the public sphere.

This legal battle promises to be closely watched, with implications for the entertainment industry and beyond.

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