Controversial Nigerian singer, Speed Darlington, has sparked outrage after openly defying the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), following his recent designation as a wanted individual.
The agency had declared him wanted for alleged rape, cyberbullying, and cyberstalking, citing a self-recorded video in which the artist appeared to confess to having had sexual relations with a 15-year-old girl. The statement, which was widely circulated on social media, prompted NAPTIP to issue an invitation for interrogation—an invitation Speed Darlington has now publicly refused to honour.
In a fresh video posted on his Instagram page on Monday, the singer boldly stated that he would not be turning himself in. He accused NAPTIP of attempting to use his name for social media relevance and challenged the agency to provide evidence of the alleged crimes.
“NAPTIP, pay attention. All this ‘wanted’ you people posted everywhere—I want you to take that down. I’m not coming,” he declared. “I haven’t committed any crime. Irresponsible talk is not a crime. Where is your evidence? Who is your complainant?”
The artist further dismissed the allegations, stating that his controversial confession was merely an attempt to generate online attention. He argued that being summoned by NAPTIP without concrete evidence amounted to harassment and theatrics, aimed at boosting the agency’s public image.
“I charge N2.5 million for an appearance. If you want me to come, pay me and cover my round trip and that of my PA,” he said mockingly. “There is no crime here. All I did was try to trend.”
He also questioned the basis of the cyberstalking and cyberbullying allegations, claiming he never mentioned anyone’s name or targeted any individual in his videos. In a final note of defiance, Speed Darlington threatened legal action against NAPTIP for defamation of character, asserting that the agency has no evidence to support its claims.
The singer’s reaction has drawn widespread criticism from the public, with many calling for a thorough investigation into the matter. NAPTIP has yet to issue a formal response to the video, but legal experts suggest the agency could seek a bench warrant if the singer continues to defy the summons.
The situation remains tense as public interest grows around the serious nature of the allegations and the implications of Speed Darlington’s provocative public statements
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