Nigerian musician Darlington Okoye, popularly known as Speed Darlington, has dismissed allegations of rape, cyberbullying, and cyberstalking after being declared wanted by the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP).
In a video shared online on Monday, the controversial artist denied any wrongdoing and refused to comply with the agency’s summons, describing the claims as unfounded.
“I’m not coming. I’ve committed no crime. All I did was speak,” he said.
NAPTIP issued a public notice on Friday, seeking information on Okoye’s whereabouts after he failed to appear before the agency over a viral livestream in which he allegedly made inappropriate claims involving a minor. The broadcast, which aired on Children’s Day, attracted widespread criticism and prompted a formal investigation.
Despite receiving an invitation to appear on May 30, the artist declined, suggesting a later date. When NAPTIP rejected the proposed change, Okoye failed to attend the rescheduled hearing. The agency said it considers the matter urgent and warned of legal action if he continues to evade summons.
In his latest video response, Okoye accused the agency of attempting to gain publicity through his name and demanded ₦2.5 million and travel expenses to honour the invitation.
“That’s my appearance fee,” he added.
The entertainer also claimed the controversial footage was part of a staged act for music promotion. However, NAPTIP maintains that the statements made in the video, if verified, may amount to offences under the Trafficking in Persons Act and the Cybercrime Prohibition Act.
Authorities continue to call on members of the public to assist with credible information that may lead to Okoye’s location.
