Controversial Nigerian singer Speed Darlington has issued a formal response after failing to honour an invitation from the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), following backlash over a disturbing online video.
The agency had earlier summoned the entertainer after he appeared to insinuate in a viral clip that he had engaged in inappropriate conduct with a 15-year-old girl.
The video sparked public outrage, leading NAPTIP to issue a letter of invitation on May 28, 2025, which Speed Darlington chose to ignore. He has now promised to appear at their Abuja headquarters on June 26, 2025, instead.
Speed Darlington’s Defense: “It Was Clout”
In a letter shared by his legal team and addressed to the Director General of NAPTIP, Speed Darlington (real name Darlington Okoye) maintained that the controversial comments were made strictly for entertainment and not based on any real events.
“For the sake of clarity, I reiterate that the said Instagram video was made for purely entertainment purpose only and does not reflect any previous or future event involving my person with any female; minor or major,” the letter stated.
He described the backlash as a misunderstanding fueled by “persons looking for fault where none exists.”
“I Was Raised With Strong Values”
Declaring himself a “law-abiding citizen” raised under “the highest ethical and moral standards,” the singer denied any involvement in acts of sexual misconduct or exploitation.
“I have never engaged in or contemplated involving myself in any form of sexual predation, sexual violation, or any form of untoward act against the opposite sex,” he insisted.
He added that he considers himself a role model committed to shaping moral values among the youth, and expressed regret for any discomfort the video may have caused.
“Without conceding to any wrongdoing… I offer my profound apology for any bad blood or misunderstanding my innocuous actions may have caused the online community.”
Next Steps
Speed Darlington concluded by reaffirming his willingness to cooperate with NAPTIP, confirming that he will report to the agency on June 26, 2025, to provide any further clarifications required.
The case remains under public scrutiny as many await NAPTIP’s next response to his letter and eventual appearance.
