Speed Darlington Fires Back at NAPTIP’s “Wanted” Declaration

Nigerian entertainer Darlington Okoye, better known as Speed Darlington, has responded defiantly to being declared a wanted person by the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP).

The agency had posted on Instagram that Darlington “is wanted in connection with alleged offences including rape, cyberbullying, and cyberstalking,” urging anyone with credible information to come forward.

Not Intimidated by the “Wanted” Tag

In an interview with Saturday Beats, Speed Darlington brushed off the declaration:

“Thanks for the heads up, but I’m not worried. They have no right to declare me wanted. My lawyer has already sent it to me. They just want to embarrass themselves. My lawyer will handle it,” he said.

In a video shared online, he made it clear he does not intend to comply: “I’m not coming. I have not committed any crime. All I did was speak,” adding that he would require ₦2.5 million plus airfare for himself and his assistant before considering any meeting with NAPTIP.

Challenging NAPTIP’s Authority

Speed Darlington accused NAPTIP of using his case for social media attention, questioning their evidence and the identity of the complainant. He demanded they remove the “wanted” notice: “Take that shit down”—he said.

Background: The Controversial Instagram Live

This backlash stems from a viral Instagram livestream where Speed Darlington allegedly claimed to have had sex with a 15‑year‑old girl—remarks that sparked widespread outrage. NAPTIP reportedly summoned him in May, but he postponed the appointment and later refused to appear in June despite further attempts by the agency.

What’s Next?

As of now, Speed Darlington remains in the spotlight. The ball is back in NAPTIP’s court—they must decide whether to pursue legal action, escalate enforcement efforts, or withdraw the declaration. His counterattack, reputation, and mounting public opinion are adding layers of complexity to how this story unfolds.