Nigerian-American entertainer Speed Darlington, real name Darlington Okoye, has told NAPTIP that he won’t come to Nigeria to be arrested by the agency.
In a now-viral response video posted Monday, Darlington dismissed the agency’s actions as a clout-chasing move, claiming he had not committed any crime and insisting he would not return to Nigeria unless NAPTIP paid for his round-trip flight and appearance fee.
“Take that sh!t down. I’m not coming. I’ve not committed any crime. Where’s your evidence and who’s the complainant? Una wan use me collect social media clout,” the musician said defiantly.
Darlington was declared wanted by the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) over allegations of rape, cyberbullying, and cyberstalking, following a self-recorded viral confession video in which he claimed to have had sex with a 15-year-old girl and allegedly gave her ₦2,000 afterward.
The case has sparked national outrage and ignited calls for justice, with NAPTIP launching a full investigation into Darlington’s conduct, which could fall under multiple violations of Nigerian law — including the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act, 2015, and the Cybercrime Act, 2015.
The investigation stems from a disturbing video where Darlington publicly claimed he had a sexual encounter with a 15-year-old girl and handed her ₦2,000 afterward. The video quickly drew the attention of NAPTIP and children’s rights groups nationwide.
NAPTIP’s Director-General, Binta Bello, confirmed that the agency was monitoring the case closely and described the allegations as “grave and deeply concerning”, especially given the victim’s age.
“If substantiated, these actions would constitute serious criminal offenses under Nigerian law,” she stated.
The agency has since circulated a wanted poster, asking the public for credible information on Darlington’s whereabouts.
The flyer describes him as wanted for rape, cyberbullying, and cyberstalking, warning that the public should assist law enforcement in bringing him in for questioning.
Legal and child protection advocates have condemned Darlington’s statements and called on authorities to ensure a transparent but swift process.
“Confessing to a sexual act with a minor — even if framed as a joke or content — is not entertainment. It’s an admission,” said one Lagos-based human rights lawyer.
READ ALSO: NAPTIP Declares Speed Darlington Wanted over Alleged Rape, Cybercrimes
Darlington, however, later attempted to walk back his confession, claiming it was intended to be “educational and entertaining,” not factual. NAPTIP, nonetheless, has not accepted that defense, pointing to the seriousness of public confessions involving minors.
Social media remains divided. While many Nigerians are calling for Darlington’s immediate extradition and prosecution, a smaller group insists that the agency is trying to use his viral fame for publicity.
Speed Darlington is no stranger to controversy. He has previously clashed with authorities and frequently courts chaos online with unfiltered content and provocative remarks.
Now, the stakes are much higher, and legal action may be imminent.
“If they want me, they should buy my ticket. I’m not flying myself to Nigeria for nonsense,” Darlington said.
The case remains under active investigation, with NAPTIP vowing to pursue justice in line with legal frameworks.