Update: Controversial Artist Speed Darlington Defies NAPTIP's Wanted Declaration Amid Serious Allegations

 

The Nigerian music scene is no stranger to controversy, but Darlington Okoye, widely recognized as Speed Darlington or Akpi, has ignited a firestorm with his recent clash with the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP). The agency has declared the artist wanted in connection to grave accusations, including rape, cyberbullying, and cyberstalking. This declaration, announced via NAPTIP’s official Instagram account @officialnaptip on June 27, 2025, has thrust the polarizing figure into the spotlight once again, raising questions about accountability, legal authority, and the boundaries of artistic provocation.

NAPTIP’s statement was unequivocal, urging the public to provide information on Speedo’s whereabouts. The agency’s post read, “Darlington Okoye, aka Speed Darlington, is wanted in connection with alleged offences including rape, cyberbullying, and cyberstalking. Anyone with credible information on his whereabouts is urged to contact NAPTIP immediately.” The move follows Speed Darlington’s failure to honor multiple invitations for questioning, stemming from a controversial Instagram Live video in which he claimed to have engaged in sexual activity with a 15-year-old girl. The remarks, made in late May 2025, sparked widespread outrage and prompted NAPTIP to act swiftly.

Speed Darlington, however, remains unfazed. Speaking to Saturday Beats, the artist dismissed NAPTIP’s authority to declare him wanted, asserting that his legal team is handling the matter. “Thanks for the heads up, but I’m not worried,” he stated confidently. “They have no right to declare me wanted. My lawyer has already sent it [the ‘wanted’ post] to me. They just want to embarrass themselves. My lawyer will handle it.” His defiance underscores a broader narrative of controversy that has defined his career, often blurring the lines between publicity stunts and reckless behavior.

The saga began when NAPTIP invited Speed Darlington for questioning on May 30, 2025, at its headquarters in Abuja. The agency sought to address his inflammatory claims made during the Instagram Live session. Speed Darlington  requested a rescheduling to June 26, 2025, citing prior commitments. NAPTIP, emphasizing the urgency of the matter, issued a follow-up letter signed by Hakeem Lawal, Director of Information and Communications Technology and Coordinator of the Cybercrime Response Team. The letter stated, “The agency wishes to state that the invitation was sent to you on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, giving you sufficient time to prepare and appear as indicated. Moreover, the issue at hand is of urgent national importance and requires an urgent response.” Speed Darlington was given until June 2, 2025, to appear, but he failed to comply, escalating tensions with the agency.

Later, Speed Darlington attempted to downplay the controversy, claiming his statements were a publicity stunt to promote a new song. “I need controversy to eat,” he declared in a subsequent post, labeling the video a “prank.” This explanation, however, has been met with sharp criticism. Advocates and critics alike argue that joking about child sexual abuse is not only irresponsible but also harmful, amplifying the damage caused by his initial remarks. The public backlash has been fierce, with many calling for accountability and questioning the ethics of using such sensitive topics for self-promotion.

The controversy surrounding Speed Darlington highlights broader issues within Nigeria’s entertainment industry, where provocative antics often garner attention but risk crossing legal and moral lines. NAPTIP’s pursuit of Speed Darlington reflects the agency’s mandate to combat human trafficking and related offenses, including the exploitation of minors and cybercrimes. By declaring him wanted, NAPTIP signals its intent to hold public figures accountable, regardless of their status or influence.

Speed Darlington’s response, however, suggests a belief that he is above such scrutiny. His assertion that NAPTIP lacks the authority to pursue him raises questions about the enforcement of legal accountability in Nigeria, particularly for high-profile individuals. Legal experts note that NAPTIP, established under the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act, has the power to investigate and prosecute offenses related to human trafficking and associated crimes, including those involving minors. Speed Darlington’s dismissal of the agency’s actions may therefore face significant legal challenges.

As the situation unfolds, the public remains divided. Supporters of Speed Darlington argue that his provocative persona is part of his artistic identity, while detractors condemn his actions as reckless and harmful. The case also underscores the growing role of social media in amplifying controversies, with platforms like Instagram serving as both a stage for public figures and a battleground for legal and ethical debates.

For now, Speed Darlington’s whereabouts remain unclear, and his legal team’s next steps are yet to be revealed. NAPTIP, undeterred by his defiance, continues to call for public assistance in locating the artist. The outcome of this high-profile standoff will likely set a precedent for how Nigeria addresses the intersection of celebrity, legal accountability, and the misuse of digital platforms. As the nation watches, the saga of Speed Darlington serves as a stark reminder of the power and peril of influence in the digital age.