Controversial Nigerian singer and social media personality, Speed Darlington, has fiercely responded to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) after being declared wanted over alleged rape and cyberbullying charges. In a dramatic video posted on social media, the US-based artist refused to honour NAPTIP’s invitation and vowed to file a defamation lawsuit against the agency.
The singer, born Darlington Okoye, accused NAPTIP of dragging his name into a “clout-chasing” move to gain public sympathy and media relevance. He boldly challenged the agency to produce concrete evidence of the alleged crimes, stating unequivocally that he has done nothing illegal.
“NAPTIP, pay attention. All this wanted nonsense you posted everywhere, I want you to take it down. I’m not coming. I’ve not committed any crime. Irresponsible talk is not a crime,” Speed Darlington said in the video, which has since gone viral.
NAPTIP had earlier declared Speed Darlington wanted following allegations of rape and cyberbullying stemming from a series of controversial social media posts. The agency cited the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act 2015 and the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015 as legal frameworks under which his actions are being investigated.
In a statement, NAPTIP insisted that if the statements made in Darlington’s viral videos are verified, they could amount to serious violations under existing Nigerian law. However, the singer dismissed these claims as unfounded and theatrics aimed at gaining attention from the public.
Taking a defiant tone, Speed Darlington turned the agency’s invitation into a mockery, likening it to a paid event appearance. “I charge N2.5 million for appearance. You go pay me that plus round-trip tickets for me and my PA. That’s what it is — an appearance. You have no evidence, no complainant,” he said.
He added that NAPTIP was only reacting because Nigerians on social media had been tagging the agency, pressuring it to take action against him. “You want to show Nigerians that you’re working. But what did I do? Did I mention names in my video? Did I stalk anyone?” he questioned.
While denying all accusations, Speed Darlington seemingly hinted that he has left Nigeria amid the controversy. In a separate video, he declared, “I’ve left Lagos girls for New York girls,” suggesting a return to the United States and distancing himself from Nigerian jurisdiction.
Though unconfirmed, reports from his fanbase and social media activity suggest that the singer may have fled the country to avoid arrest or legal confrontation.
Legal experts believe Darlington’s threats to sue NAPTIP may be a tactic to divert attention or assert his rights, but unless he presents a formal claim with legal representation, the case remains a public spat. Meanwhile, many Nigerians remain divided, with some supporting the agency’s action and others accusing it of overreach and sensationalism.
As NAPTIP continues to investigate the allegations, the spotlight remains on whether it will take further legal action or retract the wanted notice. Speed Darlington, known for his online rants and unconventional content, has once again turned controversy into a media spectacle.
However, the situation also raises questions about how Nigerian law enforcement agencies engage public figures in the digital age, and the balance between due process, media trials, and public accountability.