Speed Darlington Sues NAPTIP For ₦3 Billion Over ‘Wanted’ Declaration.
Controversial Nigerian entertainer Darlington Okoye, popularly known as Speed Darlington, has filed a ₦3 billion lawsuit against the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) for declaring him wanted, alleging defamation and violation of his rights. The suit, filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja under case number FHC/ABJ/CS/1354/2025, stems from a public notice issued by NAPTIP on 27 June 2025, which listed the rapper as wanted for alleged offences including rape, cyberbullying, and cyberstalking.
The agency’s notice, widely circulated across national newspapers and social media, featured Speed Darlington’s photograph and name under the headline “Wanted by NAPTIP.” The declaration followed a viral Instagram livestream in which the musician allegedly admitted to sexual relations with a 15-year-old girl, prompting outrage from rights groups and online viewers. NAPTIP had previously summoned Okoye on 28 May 2025 to appear at its Abuja headquarters, but he failed to comply, citing prior commitments. The agency rejected his proposed rescheduling date of 26 June and issued a final deadline of 2 June, which he also missed.
In response, Speed Darlington has vehemently denied the allegations, describing them as baseless and accusing NAPTIP of seeking “social media clout” by targeting him. In a video posted on his Instagram page, he stated, “I have not committed any crime. All I did was speak. Irresponsible talk is not a crime.” He further demanded that NAPTIP retract the wanted notice and pay him ₦2.5 million as an appearance fee, along with round-trip tickets for himself and his personal assistant, before he would consider engaging with the agency.
The lawsuit seeks ₦3 billion in damages for what Okoye claims is an unlawful and defamatory declaration that has severely damaged his reputation and put his safety at risk. Additionally, he is requesting a perpetual injunction to prevent NAPTIP, its agents, or affiliates from enforcing the 27 June publication. Okoye’s legal team argues that the agency’s actions lack evidence and were driven by public pressure rather than substantiated claims.
NAPTIP, in collaboration with the Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, and Interpol, has escalated efforts to locate Okoye, who reportedly left Nigeria for New York amid the controversy. Social media posts suggest he was spotted at an airport, sparking speculation about his departure to evade arrest. In a recent YouTube video, Speed Darlington dismissed the allegations and made controversial remarks about Nigerian women, further fuelling public debate.
The case has ignited mixed reactions online. Some netizens have criticised Okoye’s defiance, with one user commenting, “Relocating to New York won’t erase the fact that NAPTIP declared you wanted.” Others have questioned NAPTIP’s jurisdiction over the alleged offences, with a post on X stating, “Since when does NAPTIP have the authority to investigate rape and cyberbullying?” Meanwhile, Okoye’s supporters argue that the agency’s actions are an overreach, with one fan noting, “He’s being targeted for clout. Where’s the evidence?”
As the legal battle unfolds, Speed Darlington remains a polarising figure, known for his provocative online persona and music. The outcome of the lawsuit could set a significant precedent for how allegations against public figures are handled in Nigeria, particularly in the age of social media. For now, the entertainer’s bold defiance and NAPTIP’s pursuit continue to dominate headlines, leaving observers awaiting the court’s decision.
