Despite a court order for his release, the Nigerian police are still holding singer Darlington Okoye, professionally known as Speed Darlington, like the law does not matter.

Development Diaries reports that Justice Musa Liman of the Abuja Division of the Federal High Court recently directed the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, to free Darlington, who has been languishing in a police cell for weeks over a controversial lawsuit of defamation against popular singer Damini Ogulu, better known as Burna Boy.

It has been reported that a court ruling from December 2024 ordering the artiste’s release had previously been disregarded by the police.

This situation highlights a troubling violation of the rule of law.

The courts, which are the highest authorities in legal matters, issued clear instructions for the artiste’s release, yet the police have chosen to delay compliance.

This disregard for the judiciary undermines the justice system and shows that authorities can act above the law.

When court orders are ignored, everyday Nigerians lose trust in the very system meant to protect them, deepening the gap of distrust in governance.

The arrest of Speed Darlington over a defamation case involving Burna Boy further exposes a deeper issue: the misuse of police resources.

Defamation is a civil matter that should be resolved through court hearings, not prolonged detention.

While Burna Boy has every right to seek redress, it is unjust for anyone to spend weeks in police custody for a case that does not pose a threat to public safety.

Citizens must demand accountability from the police and other government institutions. The masses deserve a government that prioritises their welfare, improves infrastructure, reduces unemployment, and ensures justice.

Development Diaries calls on the IGP, Egbetokun, to order the release of Darlington, to show that the police recognise the supremacy of the law and everyone is held to the same standards.

Photo source: Speed Darlington