Speed Darlington Faces Legal Showdown As NAPTIP Rejects Appearance Offer

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has firmly rejected a proposed appearance date by controversial entertainer Darlington Okoye, popularly known as Speed Darlington, and is now considering legal action over a viral video in which he allegedly admitted to having sexual relations with a 15-year-old girl.

The agency dismissed Speed Darlington’s suggested appearance on June 26, 2025, maintaining that he must report at its Abuja headquarters by June 2. NAPTIP emphasized that the matter is too serious to accommodate his personal schedule.

Controversy erupted after the entertainer made remarks during an Instagram Live session that were widely interpreted as a confession to statutory rape. The video quickly drew widespread outrage from gender rights activists and civil society groups, prompting the Lagos State Government to report the incident to NAPTIP.

Following the report, the agency issued a formal summons, asking Okoye to appear on May 30 at its Wuse Zone 5 office in Abuja. However, he failed to comply, later sending a message requesting a postponement, citing prior engagements and suggesting June 26 instead.

“I already have prior responsibilities. I suggest June 26, when I’ll be in Abuja,” Speed Darlington communicated.

NAPTIP, however, responded sternly in a letter signed by Hakeem Lawal, Director of ICT and Cybercrime Response Coordination, stating that such a grave allegation demanded urgent attention and could not wait.

“This issue is of national importance. You are hereby directed to appear by 1:00 p.m. on Monday, June 2, 2025, at our headquarters,” the agency wrote.

Despite the new deadline, the singer again failed to show up. A senior NAPTIP official, speaking anonymously, confirmed that legal proceedings are now under serious consideration. “He’s made excuses twice. The law is no respecter of persons,” the official said.

Another insider disclosed that the agency is currently weighing its legal strategy, especially in light of recent disruptions caused by a judicial workers’ strike, which could affect court proceedings.

Meanwhile, NAPTIP’s Chief Press Officer, Vincent Adekoye, confirmed that steps are being taken in collaboration with other security agencies, including the Nigeria Immigration Service, to prevent Okoye from fleeing the country.

“We’re proactive and not taking chances. We’re working closely with relevant law enforcement bodies to ensure he faces the consequences of his actions,” Adekoye stated.