By Sulaymon Ruqoya
November 28th, 2024
Nigerian rapper and internet personality Speed Darlington, whose real name is Darlington Okoye, has been arrested in Owerri, the capital of Imo State.
The arrest was confirmed by his lawyer and human rights advocate, Deji Adeyanju, in a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday. Adeyanju revealed that the rapper was apprehended during a performance at a show in Owerri, only days after his return to Nigeria.
This marks Speed Darlington’s second arrest in recent months. He was previously detained on October 4 in Lagos after releasing a controversial video in which he allegedly defamed fellow artist Burna Boy over claims involving American rapper Diddy. Following his initial arrest, Speed Darlington was transferred to Abuja and held by the IGP’s Intelligence Response Team. He was eventually released on bail after spending five days in custody.
Adeyanju’s statement read:
“Our client, Speed Darlington, a.k.a AKPI, has been arrested by the Nigeria Police in Owerri at his show upon return to Nigeria.”
Details about the reasons for his latest arrest are still emerging. Fans and supporters have taken to social media to express concern over the recurring legal challenges faced by the rapper.