Speed Darlington was granted N20 million bail after being charged with cybercrime for taunting Burna Boy on social media. The singer's bail conditions include a surety, submission of his passport, and photographs. His trial will begin on March 18, 2025.
Nigerian singer Speed Darlington has been granted bail in the sum of N20 million by a Federal High Court in Abuja following his arrest in late November for cybercrime charges. The court ruled on Wednesday that Darlington’s bail would be secured with one surety, a level 10 civil servant residing in Abuja. The surety must submit an affidavit of means, along with verification of their address by the court registrar. The singer must also deposit his international passport and provide two passport photographs. Following the ruling, Darlington was remanded in Kuje Correctional Centre until his bail conditions are met.
The charges stem from Darlington’s online posts and videos targeting Grammy-winning artist Burna Boy. The singer allegedly made defamatory statements, including a viral video that questioned Burna Boy’s Grammy win and accused him of having a sexual relationship with Sean "Diddy" Combs. In a separate post, Darlington is accused of threatening and intimidating Burna Boy, suggesting violence and bullying him. The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, filed the charges under Nigeria’s Cybercrimes Act. Darlington’s legal team has expressed concerns over his prolonged detention and the denial of bail access, while his trial is set for March 18.
