NAPTIP Declares Musician Speed Darlington Wanted for Alleged Rape, Cyberbullying, and Cyberstalking
The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has declared controversial Nigerian musician Darlington Okoye, popularly known as Speed Darlington, wanted in connection with serious allegations of rape, cyberbullying, and cyberstalking. The announcement was made on Friday, June 27, 2025, via NAPTIP’s official Instagram page, as the agency intensifies efforts to locate the entertainer following his failure to comply with multiple summons for questioning.
In a public statement, NAPTIP urged citizens to assist in locating Okoye, providing contact details for tips. “WANTED BY NAPTIP. Darlington Okoye, aka Speed Darlington, is wanted in connection with alleged offences including rape, cyberbullying, and cyberstalking. Anyone with credible information on his whereabouts is urged to contact NAPTIP immediately via 07030000203 or info@naptip.gov.ng,” the agency stated.
Background of the Allegations
The case against Speed Darlington stems from a viral Instagram Live session in which the musician allegedly claimed to have engaged in sexual activity with a 15-year-old girl. The statement sparked widespread outrage on social media, with many condemning the remarks as evidence of statutory rape and predatory behavior. The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) intervened, referring the matter to NAPTIP for further investigation due to the severity of the allegations and their alignment with NAPTIP’s mandate under the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act 2015.
Following the referral, NAPTIP’s Cybercrime Response Team, led by Ngamaraju Mangzha, issued a letter on May 28, 2025, directing Okoye to appear at the agency’s headquarters in Wuse Zone 5, Abuja, by 9:00 a.m. on May 30, 2025, for questioning. Okoye reportedly requested a rescheduling to June 26, citing the short notice period, but NAPTIP rejected the request, stating that the original summons provided sufficient time for compliance. A subsequent deadline of June 2, 2025, was issued, which Okoye also failed to honor, prompting NAPTIP to escalate the matter by declaring him wanted.
NAPTIP’s Response and Collaboration with Authorities
NAPTIP has emphasized its commitment to addressing the allegations thoroughly, citing violations of both the Trafficking in Persons Act and the Cybercrime Act 2015, particularly in relation to the alleged rape and cyberbullying offenses. The agency has partnered with the Nigerian Immigration Service and other security agencies to ensure Okoye’s apprehension and to prevent any attempts to evade justice. This collaborative effort underscores the seriousness with which NAPTIP is treating the case, as well as its determination to uphold the law and protect vulnerable individuals.
Public Reaction and Social Media Discourse
The allegations against Speed Darlington have ignited intense debate on social media platforms, particularly on X, where users have expressed outrage and called for swift justice. Many have pointed to Okoye’s alleged confession during the Instagram Live session as damning evidence, with some referencing a 2022 incident where he was reportedly linked to a similar case involving a 16-year-old girl. Posts on X describe a pattern of predatory behavior, with users demanding his arrest and prosecution for charges including statutory rape and child prostitution.
In response to the backlash, Okoye claimed that his statements were a promotional stunt intended to generate buzz for a new song. He expressed regret for the public outcry, stating that the remarks were not meant to be taken literally. However, his failure to appear for NAPTIP’s questioning has further fueled public skepticism and intensified calls for accountability.
Legal and Social Implications
The case highlights the growing role of social media in exposing and addressing allegations of sexual misconduct, as well as the challenges of navigating such cases in the public eye. NAPTIP’s involvement reflects its broader mandate to combat human trafficking, sexual exploitation, and related offenses, including those facilitated or amplified through digital platforms. The agency’s invocation of the Cybercrime Act also signals the increasing scrutiny of online behavior, particularly when it involves cyberbullying or cyberstalking.
As of now, the investigation remains ongoing, and the information available from X posts and web sources is inconclusive without verified legal outcomes. Speed Darlington’s whereabouts remain unknown, and his failure to comply with NAPTIP’s summons has heightened the urgency of the agency’s efforts to locate him.
Call to Action
NAPTIP has reiterated its appeal to the public for assistance in locating Darlington Okoye. Anyone with credible information is urged to contact the agency immediately through the provided channels: 07030000203 or info@naptip.gov.ng. The agency has assured the public that all tips will be treated with confidentiality and urgency.
As this case unfolds, it serves as a stark reminder of the importance of accountability, particularly in cases involving allegations of sexual violence and exploitation. NAPTIP’s decisive action underscores its commitment to protecting victims and ensuring justice, while the public awaits further developments in this high-profile case.
