The ongoing feud between Nigerian artists Burna Boy and Speed Darlington has intensified over recent months, marked by legal actions and public exchanges.
The conflict originated in October 2024 when Speed Darlington, born Darlington Achakpo, released a video mocking Burna Boy’s association with American rapper Diddy, who was facing legal issues at the time. In the video, Darlington questioned the nature of Burna Boy’s relationship with Diddy, insinuating that it contributed to Burna Boy’s Grammy win.
In response to the video, Burna Boy, whose real name is Damini Ogulu, filed a petition alleging defamation and cyberstalking. This led to Speed Darlington’s arrest in Lagos on October 4, 2024. He was subsequently detained by the Intelligence Response Team of the Inspector General of Police in Abuja. After spending several days in custody, Darlington was released on bail on October 8, 2024, following the intervention of his lawyer, Deji Adeyanju.
Despite his release, the legal proceedings continued. On January 15, 2025, a Federal High Court in Abuja formally arraigned Speed Darlington on a two-count charge of alleged cybercrime. He pleaded not guilty and was granted bail set at ₦20 million, with specific conditions including the provision of a surety who must be a Level 10 civil servant residing in Abuja. The trial was adjourned to March 18, 2025.
Following his release, Speed Darlington addressed his fans via an Instagram Live session, asserting that he harbored no personal animosity towards Burna Boy but alleged that Burna Boy had influenced his arrest. He claimed that the Nigerian police treated him unfairly and that Burna Boy perceived him as a threat. Darlington also expressed surprise at the existence of cybercrime laws under which he was charged, questioning the maturity of individuals who would resort to legal action over insults.
In a stern public statement, Burna Boy warned Speed Darlington against further defamatory remarks, stating, “Next time there will be no mercy.” This warning underscores the seriousness with which Burna Boy views the situation and his intent to pursue legal remedies if such incidents reoccur.
The feud between Burna Boy and Speed Darlington highlights the increasing legal implications of online interactions among public figures. As the trial progresses, it serves as a pertinent example of how digital communications are subject to scrutiny under cybercrime legislation, emphasizing the need for responsible online conduct.
In a related development, Speed Darlington filed a ₦300 million lawsuit against the Inspector-General of Police for alleged unlawful detention. The Federal High Court in Abuja postponed the case to January 27, 2025, after the IGP’s lawyer requested more time to review new evidence.
This ongoing saga between Burna Boy and Speed Darlington serves as a cautionary tale for artists and public figures about the potential legal consequences of their online statements and actions.
