Nigerian singer and internet personality, Darlington Okoye, popularly known as Speed Darlington, has dismissed allegations levelled against him by the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), stating he will only appear before the agency if he is paid ₦2.5 million.
The artist made the demand in a video posted online following NAPTIP’s declaration of him as wanted. The agency had on Friday listed him as a person of interest over alleged offences including rape, cyberbullying, and cyberstalking.
In the video, Speed Darlington denied any wrongdoing, insisting he committed no crime and accused the agency of attempting to exploit his popularity.
“All I did was talk. Irresponsible talk is not a crime,” he said. “Where is your evidence? Who filed a complaint? You’re using my name to chase clout.”
He further stated, “If you want me to show up, you must pay ₦2.5 million plus cover flight tickets for me and my PA. That’s my rate for an appearance.”
NAPTIP’s action follows a viral video from an Instagram live session where the artist allegedly claimed to have paid a 15-year-old girl ₦2,000 for sex. The agency said the video raised concerns under the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act (TIPPEA), 2015, and the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015.
In an official statement, NAPTIP urged the public to assist in locating the artist. “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 agency said, listing a phone number and email for tips.
NAPTIP added that the artist failed to respond to a formal invitation sent four weeks ago, prompting the agency to escalate the matter publicly.
As of press time, Speed Darlington has not made any formal contact with the agency. His online responses continue to draw mixed reactions across social media.