What’s Going On?
The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has officially declared Nigerian entertainer Darlington Okoye, popularly known as Speed Darlington, wanted. This announcement stems from allegations of rape, cyberbullying, and cyberstalking issued through their verified Instagram account on June 27, 2025.
The Triggering Incident
On Children’s Day, Speed Darlington triggered national outrage by claiming in a viral Instagram livestream that he had slept with a 15-year-old girl. The statement sparked widespread condemnation and prompted the Lagos State government to report the matter to NAPTIP.
Failed Summons & Legal Letters
First Summons (May 28, 2025): NAPTIP invited him for questioning at their Abuja headquarters by 9 a.m. on May 30 due to the seriousness of his claims.
Requested Reschedule: Speed Darlington replied, proposing to appear on June 26, citing prior commitments.
Deadline Shift: NAPTIP rejected the new date, stressing the need for urgency, and set a June 2 deadline instead.
Non-Compliance: He failed to appear on both May 30 and June 2, leading NAPTIP to issue a full “wanted” notification.
Speed Darlington’s Response
Dismissal and Legal Pushback: He publicly stated that NAPTIP had no right to declare him wanted and hinted that his lawyer is taking action.
“Just a Publicity Stunt” Defense: He defended his controversial claim as a publicity stunt, telling Saturday Beats:
“I’m not worried. They have no right to declare me wanted… My lawyer will handle it.”
Legal and Public Repercussions
Alleged Offences: NAPTIP’s statement includes charges of rape, cyberbullying, and cyberstalking owing to his video claims.
Cross-Agency Action: NAPTIP says it’s collaborating with sister agencies to prevent his escape and ensure he faces questioning.
Potential Legal Steps: Officials suggest that court action may follow if he continues to ignore summons, emphasizing that “no one is free in the eyes of the law.”
Why This Matters
Child Safety Concerns: His alleged claim about a minor is extremely serious, raising concerns over how social media recklessness can turn into criminal consequences.
Agency Authority: NAPTIP’s decisive move underscores its growing power and capacity to enforce laws related to human trafficking, cybercrime, and sexual offenses.
Public Trust in the System: The agency’s firm stance may restore confidence in law enforcement’s ability to hold high-profile figures accountable.
CONCLUSION
Speed Darlington now finds himself at the center of a serious legal crisis, with shocking claims, broken court summons, and a full-scale “wanted” notice from NAPTIP. As the public and legal drama unfolds, key questions loom: Will he comply? Will legal action follow? Can high-profile individuals flout due process with impunity?
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