[UPDATED] NAPTIP Confirms Summons to Singer Speed Darlington Over Alleged Sexual Offences, Sets Monday Deadline

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has confirmed that it issued a formal invitation to Nigerian singer Darlington Okoye, popularly known as Speed Darlington, in relation to online content linked to alleged sexual offences involving a minor.

In a statement released on Friday by Hakeem Lawal, the agency’s Director of Information and Communications Technology, NAPTIP emphasized the urgency of the matter, citing its national importance. The agency stated that the invitation was initially sent on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, allowing ample time for the singer to prepare and respond.

The agency rejected Speed Darlington’s request to reschedule the meeting to June 26, stating that it cannot accommodate the proposed delay given the seriousness of the allegations.

According to the statement, the singer is now required to appear in person at NAPTIP’s headquarters—located at 2028 Dalaba Crescent, Wuse Zone 5, FCT, Abuja—no later than 1:00 p.m. on Monday, June 2, 2025, for an official interview.

NAPTIP responded directly to Speed Darlington’s message, which was sent via social media, where he stated:
"Hello, I will not be able to come in today. This is very sudden and urgent for me. I already have commitments and responsibilities. I suggest you should reschedule to next month, June 26. I will be in Abuja that day."

In reply, the agency reiterated:
"The issue at hand is of urgent national importance and cannot be delayed. Your cooperation is critical, and failure to appear as requested may lead to further legal consequences."

This development follows a report by SaharaReporters on May 28, 2025, stating that the Lagos State Government had formally notified NAPTIP after a disturbing video surfaced online. In the video, Speed Darlington appeared to admit during an Instagram Live session to having sexual relations with an underage girl, prompting widespread condemnation.

The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) confirmed the video’s circulation and stated that while it condemns the alleged act, its jurisdiction is limited to Lagos, and the exact location of the incident was not disclosed by the entertainer.

"The DSVA is aware of the video in which a well-known entertainer allegedly admits to unlawful sexual activity with a minor," the agency said in a statement on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle. "However, since the location of the alleged offence was not identified, and our authority does not extend beyond Lagos State, the matter has been referred to the appropriate federal agency."

NAPTIP has since taken over the investigation and is calling for full cooperation from all involved parties as it moves forward with the case.