NAPTIP Declares Speed Darlington Wanted for Rape, Cyberbullying

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has declared popular Nigerian entertainer Darlington Okoye, known as Speed Darlington, wanted over alleged offences including rape, cyberbullying, and cyberstalking.

NAPTIP announced the development via its official Instagram page on Friday, urging anyone with credible information about Okoye’s whereabouts to contact the agency immediately through its hotline or email.

The move follows a series of missed appointments after the agency summoned Speed Darlington to answer questions regarding a controversial statement he made during a live Instagram session, where he claimed to have had sexual relations with a 15-year-old girl.

The incident, which was streamed live on Children’s Day, quickly sparked public outrage and drew condemnation from women’s rights groups.

According to NAPTIP, the singer failed to honour two official invitations for questioning at its Abuja headquarters, first scheduled for May 30, 2025, and later on June 2, 2025. Despite Okoye’s requests to reschedule, the agency insisted that the matter was of urgent national importance and would not adjust its timeline to suit him.

Authorities say the allegations could constitute offences under Nigeria’s anti-trafficking and cybercrime laws. NAPTIP also noted a reduction in secondary income flows in a related financial statement, but emphasised that Okoye’s cooperation is critical to their investigation.

Speed Darlington, in a series of follow-up videos, claimed his statements were merely publicity stunts for new music and labelled the viral confession as a prank. However, the controversy continues to attract attention, with legal experts and human rights activists calling for a thorough investigation.

NAPTIP, in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies, says it is taking every step to ensure Okoye faces questioning and that the law takes its course.

Anyone with relevant information about Speed Darlington’s location is encouraged to reach out to NAPTIP via 07030000203 or [email protected].