Controversial Nigerian entertainer, Darlington Achakpo Okoye, popularly known as Speed Darlington, has filed a ₦3 billion lawsuit against the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), claiming defamation and reputational damage after the agency declared him wanted.
The lawsuit, lodged at the Federal High Court in Abuja on July 9, 2025, was filed by a team of female legal practitioners representing the artist.
They argue that the declaration, made by NAPTIP on June 27, was baseless and has exposed him to public ridicule, threats, and personal danger.
The notice, which was shared via NAPTIP’s official Instagram page (@officialnaptip), read:
“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.”
Speed Darlington is now seeking a court order to permanently restrain NAPTIP from acting on or enforcing the contents of the statement.
In response to the controversy, a viral video surfaced in which an individual resembling the singer appeared to admit to a sexual encounter with a minor.
This led to swift intervention by the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), which subsequently forwarded the matter to NAPTIP for further investigation.
Despite the artist’s claims that the video was staged as a joke, NAPTIP maintained its stance, urging him to present himself at its Abuja headquarters for questioning.
Speed Darlington, in defending his actions, said that controversy is part of the music industry and a tactic used to remain in the spotlight. He explained:
“Artistes need controversy to thrive.”
He also issued a general apology, adding:
“My controversial statements were part of promoting my work and I apologise to anyone who was offended.”
Maintaining his innocence, the singer insists that the allegations are false and damaging to his career and public image.
Through his legal team, he is demanding ₦3 billion in damages and a court injunction to prevent NAPTIP from continuing any actions based on the June 27 publication..
