Speed Darlington Defies NAPTIP, Denies Rape Allegation in Viral Video
Singer says he’s done nothing wrong, threatens to sue for defamation
In a video posted to his Instagram on Monday, controversial Nigerian musician Speed Darlington openly refused to honour an invitation from the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), declaring that he would not turn himself in for interrogation.
The agency had declared the singer wanted a few days prior, following a viral video in which he claimed to have had sexual relations with a 15-year-old girl. NAPTIP also accused him of cyberbullying and cyberstalking.
“NAPTIP, pay attention. All this ‘wanted’ nonsense you people posted everywhere — take it down. I’m not coming,” Speed Darlington said in the video. “I have not committed any crime. All I did was talk. Irresponsible talk is not a crime. Where is your evidence? Who is your complainant?”
The artist alleged that the agency was using his name to gain popularity and score social media points, saying:
“You want to use me for clout. To say, ‘Hey look at us, we’re doing our job — we summoned a celebrity and he came.’ I know the psychological games you’re trying to play.”
He further demanded N2.5 million as an appearance fee and round-trip tickets for himself and his personal assistant if NAPTIP expected him to show up.
“I charge N2.5 million for appearances. That invitation? I consider it an appearance. Pay me,” he stated.
Despite his earlier confession, the singer claimed there was no evidence of any crime, insisting he was only trying to “trend.”
“I knack 15-year-old girl — na crime? Where is the evidence? You people have no proof,” he said, before threatening legal action. “Honestly, I’ll sue you for defamation of character. You’ve spoilt my name.”