The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons has declared controversial Nigerian entertainer, Darlington Okoye, popularly known as Speed Darlington, wanted over serious allegations including rape, cyberbullying, and cyberstalking.
The agency made the announcement on Friday, June 27, through its verified Instagram handle, calling on the public to assist with any information regarding his whereabouts.
“WANTED BY NAPTIP. Darlington Okoye, aka Speed Darlington, is wanted in connection with alleged offences including rape, cyberbullying, and cyberstalking,” the statement read.
“Anyone with credible information on his whereabouts is urged to contact NAPTIP immediately. Call: 07030000203, [email protected].”
The move comes after the entertainer repeatedly failed to honour invitations from the agency following a controversial Instagram live session in which he allegedly claimed to have had sexual relations with a 15-year-old girl. The video, streamed on May 27—Children’s Day—sparked nationwide outrage and led the Lagos State Government to escalate the matter to NAPTIP.
In response, the agency issued an official invitation to Okoye on May 30, requesting his presence at its headquarters in Abuja. However, he failed to appear and did not offer a valid explanation for his absence. Although he later responded, asking for the meeting to be rescheduled to June 26, NAPTIP maintained that the matter was urgent and could not be delayed.
“The invitation was sent on May 28, giving him ample time to prepare. This issue is of national urgency and requires his immediate presence,” said Hakeem Lawal, Director of Information and Communications Technology at NAPTIP, in a follow-up letter.
Despite the rescheduling, Okoye again failed to show up. A senior NAPTIP official, speaking anonymously, said, “We gave him more than enough time. He’s missed two appointments. We’re studying the situation and exploring all legal avenues. No one is above the law.”
Speaking further, NAPTIP’s Chief Press Officer, Vincent Adekoye, confirmed that the agency is working in collaboration with other security agencies to ensure Okoye is apprehended. “We are proactive. We’ve activated all relevant partnerships and are not taking chances,” he stated.
The agency also raised concerns over Okoye’s public denials and shifting narratives. In follow-up posts, the entertainer claimed his earlier statement was a “publicity stunt” meant to boost engagement for a forthcoming music release. “I need controversy to eat,” he said.
Officials, however, rejected his explanation as harmful and irresponsible. “He was not under any pressure when he made the initial confession. Even more troubling, he later posted a video suggesting that if he had known the 15-year-old reference would cause such a backlash, he would have said 12 instead. That kind of mindset is dangerous,” a NAPTIP official said.
The agency’s Director-General, Binta Bello, is said to be closely monitoring the case. “We’re dealing with an issue that involves the rights and welfare of a minor. Our DG is very concerned. No stone will be left unturned in pursuing justice,” Adekoye affirmed.
Meanwhile, Isaac Fayose, brother of former Ekiti State Governor Ayo Fayose, has disclosed that the alleged victim is preparing to lodge a formal complaint with the police.
