They Wouldn’t Dare In Sokoto!” – Speed Darlington Fires Back At Critics

Controversial Nigerian singer Speed Darlington has lashed out at critics who condemned him over his controversial statement about having sexual relations with a 15-year-old girl.

The singer had earlier issued an apology, explaining that his shocking claim was merely an attempt to generate online buzz and promote his music.

However, in a recent Instagram Live session, Speed Darlington doubled down on his remarks, stating that had he known referencing a 15-year-old would generate such massive attention, he would have claimed the girl was 12. He further suggested that the backlash he is facing is due to his Southern Nigerian origin.

According to him, such criticism would not have occurred if he were from Sokoto, a region where he implied child marriages are culturally accepted.

“If I knew saying 15 would bring this much attention, I would’ve said 12. This is happening because I’m in Southern Nigeria. Would you challenge me if I were in Sokoto? You wouldn’t disrespect me like this,” he said.

Meanwhile, the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has formally summoned Speed Darlington for questioning, following allegations of sexual misconduct involving a minor.

This development comes after the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency reported the matter to NAPTIP, urging a full-scale investigation.

In response to the growing outrage, Speed Darlington released another video in which he insisted his comments were part of a publicity stunt to promote his new song. He apologized for any offence his statements may have caused.

“To all my followers who are upset about the video where I mentioned sleeping with a 15-year-old — I’m an artiste. I thrive on controversy. If you’re not trending, you’re not getting booked. I needed content to promote my song, which contains explicit themes. That’s all it was. If I offended anyone, I apologize,” he said.

NAPTIP, in a statement released on Thursday, confirmed that the singer has been summoned and warned that further action would be taken if he fails to comply with the investigation.