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WafricNews – June 1st, 2025

Abuja, Nigeria – The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) is weighing legal options after controversial singer Speed Darlington failed to respond to an official summons regarding a troubling video in which he appeared to confess to having sexual relations with a 15-year-old girl.

The self-styled entertainer, whose real name is Darlington Darlington, was summoned last week by the agency following public outrage sparked by the viral clip. In the footage, he casually admitted to the act, triggering widespread calls for investigation and accountability.

A formal invitation was issued on Wednesday and signed by Ngamaraju Mangzha, Head of NAPTIP’s Cybercrime Response Team. Darlington was directed to appear at the agency’s Abuja headquarters by 9:00 a.m. Friday. However, NAPTIP sources confirmed he failed to show up and has not communicated any reasons for his absence.

An agency official, who requested anonymity, confirmed Darlington’s no-show and warned that legal consequences are on the table. “We are still waiting. If he continues to ignore the invitation, we will proceed based on the legal notice already served,” the official stated.

The agency’s letter had made its position unambiguous: “Your cooperation is critical to ensuring a fair and thorough enquiry into the matter. Failure to honour this invitation may result in further legal action.”

Another senior NAPTIP source disclosed that no explanation or contact has been received from the singer. “It’s already evening, and we’ve heard nothing. No flight delay notification, no message—nothing at all,” the source said.

The scandal initially came to NAPTIP’s attention through multiple online tags and direct reports to their Lagos office. Due to jurisdictional limitations at the state level, the case was promptly escalated to the national office in Abuja, where it has now gained high-level attention.

Adekoye Vincent, NAPTIP’s Chief Press Officer, confirmed that the Director-General, Binta Bello, is personally monitoring the situation, citing the sensitive nature of the allegation and its implications on child protection.

“Our DG is very concerned. This is an issue involving a minor’s rights and a possible case of sexual exploitation. That alone warrants immediate and serious attention,” Vincent said.

Adding to the concern, Vincent highlighted a more recent video in which Darlington appeared to mock the outrage, saying he would have opted for a 12-year-old had he known the backlash a 15-year-old would cause.

When asked whether the agency intends to involve the police or pursue direct prosecution, Vincent said NAPTIP is fully prepared to act within legal bounds. “The next step could be arrest or prosecution. But rest assured, we are not taking this lightly,” he emphasized.


By WafricNews Desk.

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