NAPTIP Weighs Legal Action Against Speed Darlington Over 15-Year-Old Sex Claim

NAPTIP Weighs Legal Action Against Speed Darlington Over 15-Year-Old Sex Claim

NAPTIP, National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, is considering legal action against controversial singer Speed Darlington, whose real name is Darlington Okoye, after he failed to honor an official summons regarding a viral video. In the video, Speed Darlington claimed to have had sex with a 15-year-old girl.

The singer was expected to appear at NAPTIP’s headquarters in Abuja on Friday at 9:00 a.m., but officials confirmed he had not shown up as of noon. A letter addressed to Okoye and signed by NAPTIP’s Head of Cybercrime Response Team, Ngamaraju Mangzha, had summoned the singer to answer questions related to the disturbing claims made during a live Instagram session.

NAPTIP officials are still waiting for Speed Darlington to appear, and if he doesn’t, they will take action based on the notice issued. The agency has not received any form of communication or explanation from Okoye regarding his absence.

The controversy started when concerned Nigerians tagged the Lagos State Government after the video surfaced online. However, since the offense couldn’t be confirmed to have occurred in Lagos, the matter was referred to NAPTIP’s national headquarters in Abuja.

NAPTIP‘s Chief Press Officer, Adekoye Vincent, said the agency’s Director-General, Binta Bello, is closely monitoring the matter due to its gravity and implications for the rights of minors. “We are concerned. Our DG is seriously concerned. She’s monitoring the situation by the hour,” he said.

Adekoye noted that Speed Darlington’s confession was made voluntarily and without coercion. “He was not under duress. It was an admission. Look at what he released yesterday: a video saying that if he had known the 15-year-old would generate this reaction, he would have gone for a 12-year-old,” Adekoye stated.

When asked if the singer would be arrested or prosecuted, Adekoye said the agency would follow due process and respond appropriately. “His failure to appear will ensure that we know what to do within the law. It may be prosecution or arrest, but whatever it is, we are very concerned.”

The case has sparked widespread outrage and raised questions about the protection of minors and the role of social media in perpetuating harmful behavior. As the investigation continues, many are eagerly awaiting the outcome and hoping for justice to be served.

NAPTIP’s decision to weigh legal options against Speed Darlington sends a strong message that the agency is committed to protecting the rights of minors and holding perpetrators accountable. The agency’s Director-General, Binta Bello, has assured Nigerians that her team is working tirelessly to ensure that justice is served.

The outcome of this case will likely have significant implications for the entertainment industry and beyond. As the public waits with bated breath for the next development, one thing is clear: the protection of minors is a top priority, and those who engage in harmful behavior will be held accountable.