NAPTIP Summons Speed Darlington Over Shocking Allegations of Sexual Misconduct Involving Minor
The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has officially summoned controversial Nigerian musician Darlington Okoye, popularly known as Speed Darlington, following alarming allegations of sexual misconduct involving an underage girl.
The issue sparked outrage after Speed Darlington, during a recent Instagram Live session, claimed to have engaged in a s£xual relationship with a 15-year-old girl. His statement, which many have described as deeply troubling and irresponsible, quickly went viral, triggering widespread condemnation from social media users, advocacy groups, and concerned citizens.
In response to the uproar, the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) escalated the matter to NAPTIP, calling for an urgent and comprehensive investigation into the singer’s confession. DSVA emphasized that public figures must be held accountable for statements that could encourage or normalize the abuse of minors.
Reacting to the intense backlash, Speed Darlington posted a follow-up video in which he attempted to downplay the situation, claiming his earlier remarks were part of a promotional stunt intended to draw attention to his upcoming music release. He also issued a public apology, stating he never intended to cause offence or harm and that the comments were taken out of context.
However, NAPTIP appears to be taking the matter very seriously. In an official statement released on Thursday, the agency confirmed that it had issued a formal invitation to Speed Darlington, requesting his presence for questioning regarding the incident. The agency made it clear that a failure to honor the summons would lead to additional legal action.
The two-page letter addressed to Mr. Okoye states:
“We write to formally invite you to appear before the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) in respect of certain video materials recently circulated online, including but not limited to a particular Instagram video wherein you allegedly made statements admitting to having engaged in sexual acts with an underage girl. Additional archived videos, now in circulation, similarly contain admissions and degrading commentary concerning minors.”
NAPTIP further noted that if the allegations are confirmed, the actions would constitute grave violations of Nigerian law under the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act (TIPPEA) 2015 and the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015.
Speed Darlington has been directed to appear in person at the agency’s headquarters located at 2028 Dalaba Crescent, Wuse Zone 5, Abuja, on Friday, May 30, 2025, by 9 a.m. He is permitted to bring legal representation or any relevant documents he may wish to present.
NAPTIP concluded the statement by stressing the importance of the artist’s cooperation: “Please be informed that your cooperation is critical to ensuring a fair and thorough inquiry into the matter. Failure to honour this invitation may result in further legal action.”
The development has reignited public discourse on the accountability of celebrities and influencers, particularly when their words or actions appear to promote harmful behavior.
