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| Nigeria’s NAPTIP Tracks Speed Darlington |
On July 1, 2025, Nigeria’s anti-trafficking agency added Darlington Okoye—known as Speed Darlington to an international watchlist. The agency also notified Interpol after the singer ignored several summonses.
The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) said it first invited Okoye over a live video in which he claimed to have had sex with a 15-year-old girl. He did not appear when asked to answer questions on May 30 or June 2.
After he missed both dates, NAPTIP declared him wanted on June 27 for alleged rape, cyberbullying, and cyberstalking. It then placed his name on its international watchlist. It urged any country with credible information to arrest and hand him over.
Vincent Adekoye, NAPTIP’s chief press officer, said the agency is working with the police, the Nigeria Immigration Service, the DSS, and Interpol. He said they have given Okoye enough opportunities to clear his name.
Agency officials hinted at possibly offering ₦50 million reward for intel yielding his apprehension and that move underscores case's urgency somewhat.
In response, Okoye posted a video online. He denied all wrongdoing and called the allegations baseless. He claimed the case was a stunt for “social media clout.” He even demanded a ₦2.5 million “appearance fee” to show up.
“I’m not coming. You hear me? I have not committed any crime,” he said in the clip. He said he only spoke for attention and that no evidence exists against him.
Experts say NAPTIP can act when any person admits to sexual involvement with a minor. Agency enforces Trafficking in Persons Prohibition Enforcement and Administration Act 2015 alongside Cybercrime Act 2015 with stiff penalties meted out quite severely.
Child rights groups have welcomed NAPTIP’s firm stance. The Network Against Child Trafficking, Abuse and Labour (NACTAL) said it supports measures to shield minors from online predators. NACTAL urged all Nigerians to report tips quickly.
Civil society voices call for balanced justice. They insist on due process and fair trial for all, even high-profile figures. They also stress the need for swift action when minors are at risk.
Public reaction online has been divided. Some say NAPTIP is right to move fast. Others worry about media trials and demand proof before guilt is assumed. Many ask if similar vigor is shown in cases involving older offenders.
Legal scholars note that placing a suspect on a watchlist does not equal guilt. It helps authorities track movements and prevent flight risks. Interpol alerts then flag him at passport controls worldwide.
The singer’s record shows past stunts and feuds. He once sparked outrage for mocking prayer culture and for public spats with fellow artists. Yet this case marks the first time NAPTIP got involved.
As the story unfolds, questions remain. Will Speed Darlington appear before the agency? Will Interpol pick up his trail abroad? And will evidence emerge to back the charges?
This case highlights risks of live social media. When celebrities speak off the cuff, words can carry legal weight. It also shows how law enforcers adapt to digital age crimes.
For Nigerians, the matter tests faith in institutions. Many watch to see if agencies act equally on all. They want both child safety and respect for rights.