Speed Darlington Defies NAPTIP Summons, Insists Irresponsible Talk Is Not Crime
Nigerian rapper and internet personality, Speed Darlington, has openly defied a summons issued by the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), sparking widespread attention and controversy.
The agency had declared him wanted after he reportedly failed to respond to two invitations over a viral video that allegedly suggested criminal conduct involving a minor.
In a defiant video posted to his Instagram page, Speed Darlington dismissed NAPTIP’s actions as baseless and mocked the agency’s handling of the matter.
“Irresponsible talk is not a crime. I am not coming,” he said emphatically, adding that he had no intention of complying with the summons unless certain conditions were met.
Among his demands, the rapper requested ₦2.5 million in appearance fees, as well as two round-trip flight tickets—one for himself and the other for his assistant.
He further accused NAPTIP of damaging his reputation, threatening to file a defamation lawsuit against the agency if it failed to clear his name.
“Who complained? Who is the victim? I have not committed any crime,” Speed Darlington said in the video. “You’re using my name to chase clout. I will sue you for defamation of character.”
The agency had earlier declared him wanted following public outcry over a now-viral clip in which he appeared to imply involvement in sexual activity with a 15-year-old girl.
While Darlington has since claimed the comments were satirical or taken out of context, NAPTIP says it is treating the matter seriously, especially given the implications under Nigeria’s anti-trafficking and cybercrime laws.
According to NAPTIP, the rapper’s failure to honor their invitation has obstructed their investigation and prompted the need to escalate the matter publicly.
Officials have not yet confirmed whether formal charges will follow, but say they are exploring all legal avenues.
Public opinion has remained sharply divided. While some fans have defended the rapper, arguing that his statements were typical of his over-the-top social media persona, others believe the agency is right to take action, stressing the importance of holding public figures accountable, especially when minors are involved.
Legal experts note that while free speech is protected, the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act and other relevant laws allow for investigation of any statements or actions that could promote or suggest the exploitation of children, even if made in jest.
At the time of this report, NAPTIP had not responded directly to Darlington’s new video or his financial demands.
However, sources within the agency indicate that legal steps are ongoing, and that the public should expect updates soon.
As the standoff continues, Speed Darlington remains unbothered, using his social media platforms to amplify his side of the story, while challenging the agency to either press charges or back down.
In summary, what began as an online outburst has escalated into a national standoff between a defiant entertainer and a federal agency tasked with protecting the vulnerable. The case may now test the boundaries between satire, free expression, and criminal responsibility in Nigeria’s digital age.
