The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) is preparing legal measures against Nigerian musician Darlington Okoye, known as Speed Darlington, after he ignored an official summons regarding his viral admission of sexual involvement with a minor.
NAPTIP had ordered the controversial artist to appear at its Abuja headquarters by 9:00 a.m. on Friday, May 30, following public outrage over an Instagram video where he claimed to have slept with a “15-year-old virgin.” However, as of midday, Okoye failed to show up or provide any explanation, prompting the agency to consider enforcement actions.
A NAPTIP official, speaking anonymously, confirmed: “We are still waiting. If he doesn’t comply, we will proceed as stated in our notice.” Another source revealed that Okoye made no contact with the agency, despite the gravity of the allegations.
The case was escalated to NAPTIP after the Lagos State Government determined it lacked jurisdiction. The agency’s summons cited potential violations of the Trafficking in Persons Act and the Cybercrime Act, demanding Okoye’s immediate cooperation. The letter warned that refusal to comply could lead to prosecution.
NAPTIP’s Chief Press Officer, Adekoye Vincent, stated that Director-General Binta Bello is closely monitoring the situation, emphasizing the seriousness of crimes involving minors. “This is about child rights and abuse—we cannot take it lightly,” he said.
In a bid to deflect backlash, Okoye later dismissed the video as a “publicity stunt” for his music career, calling it a “prank.” However, activists and netizens condemned his attempt to trivialize child exploitation. Meanwhile, Isaac Fayose, brother of former Ekiti Governor Ayodele Fayose, disclosed that the alleged victim plans to file a police complaint.
NAPTIP has vowed to pursue legal action if Okoye continues to evade accountability.