Controversial Nigerian singer, Darlington Achakpo aka Speed Darlington has tendered an apology to singer, Burna Boy.
He apologized to the Grammy winner following his release from police custody.
The apology was posted by the singer's lawyer, Stan Alieke on his Instagram story.
In the statement, Alieke explained that Speed Darlington’s videos, which stirred controversy, were intended purely for entertainment, with no aim to defame or insult anyone. He also noted that Darlington is known for bringing joy to his audience, and his remarks were misinterpreted.
The statement read:
“PUBLIC STATEMENT.
Without prejudice.
Our client, having taken time to reflect on the events of the past few days, deems it necessary to release this statement through his legal representatives which shall therefore serve as his official statement and comment on the event.
l. Our client believes strongly in collaboration and healthy competition. He appreciates his colleague’s artistry and is confident that his colleague equally appreciates his craft. There have never been any prior discord or unresolved differences between them.
2. Our client whom many have come to know as a “joy-giver” made the video in question purely for laughs and for its entertainment value, with no intention to malign or defame. Our client was only exploring his comedic side, and while the content may have been interpreted as extreme, it was never meant to harm or put a stain on his colleague’s reputation. He did not foresee the level of public attention the video would attract.
3. Our client, who holds his mother in the highest regard, does not condone disrespect towards mothers or women in general. He therefore confided in us that the video which was said to have disrespected his colleague’s mom was a “misrepresentation of words” or a slip of the tongue. If any remarks made were perceived as disrespectful towards his colleague’s mother, such comments were unintended.
4. Our client having recognized his position as an influential member of the society and a role model has henceforth taken the responsibility to set a positive example. He does not condone the use of social media platforms to malign, defame and disrespect individuals and has committed to using his influence to foster peace and set a good example moving forward.
5. Finally, our client has privately reached out to his colleague and his team in the spirit of brotherhood and extension of an olive branch and to offer further clarification in person to him. This publication only serves as an official statement/ comment of our client on the event and should
not be mistaken as an admission of guilt (if there be any) and should therefore never be taken as such.
See the statement below:
