Controversial artist Speed Darlington has found himself under serious scrutiny after comments he made in a viral video sparked public outrage.
The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has formally invited the singer, whose real name is Darlington Okoye, for questioning. The invitation follows footage circulating online in which he appeared to admit to having a sexual relationship with a 15-year-old girl.
In an official statement shared on Thursday, NAPTIP urged Speed Darlington to respond to their invitation issued on May 28, 2025. “Failure to respond may lead to further action,” the statement emphasized.
The letter, addressed to the artist, noted that the agency is looking into not only the widely shared Instagram clip but also other videos allegedly showing him making inappropriate remarks involving minors. If confirmed, these actions could violate several laws, including the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act and the Cybercrime Act of 2015.
He has been requested to appear at NAPTIP’s headquarters in Abuja on Friday, May 30, 2025, at 9 a.m. He’s also been advised to bring legal counsel or any documents he feels are necessary.
The situation took a further twist when Speed Darlington released another video claiming that his earlier remarks were simply part of a promotional strategy for an upcoming music release. He issued an apology to anyone offended by his comments, describing the video as a joke taken out of context.
Despite the apology, the backlash from the public and authorities has not died down. The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) has also weighed in, forwarding the matter to NAPTIP for further investigation.
The case now hinges on Speed Darlington’s cooperation as authorities move forward with their inquiries.
