 |
| Image: Google |
The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has confirmed that controversial rapper Speed Darlington remains on its security watchlist over allegations of sexual activity with a minor, reiterating that the investigation will resume once he returns to Nigeria.
The agency disclosed on Monday that the artiste, whose real name is Darlington Okoye, was placed on the watchlist after repeatedly ignoring invitations to appear before investigators in Abuja.
Speaking at a press conference to mark the launch of the 2025 edition of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence in Abuja, NAPTIP’s Director of Legal and Prosecution, Mrs Ijeoma Amugo, provided details of the case, noting that the rapper is under investigation for a May 2024 Instagram live video in which he allegedly admitted to having sexual relations with a 15-year-old girl.
Rather than cooperating with the agency, Amugo said, Speed Darlington resorted to attacking NAPTIP on social media and openly declared that he would not submit to questioning.
“What he did was to preemptively try to intimidate us by going to social media to say that he wouldn’t come and that he wouldn’t respond to us, claiming we were violating his human rights,” she said.
Efforts to physically locate the rapper were reportedly unsuccessful, with intelligence reports indicating that he had left the country.
“Our last information is that he’s outside Nigeria. We’ve placed him on watchlist. The moment he steps back into the country, we’ll pick up the investigation,” Amugo explained, stressing that NAPTIP is committed to pursuing the case once he returns.
She further clarified the agency’s position, emphasizing that the watchlist ensures the rapper remains under scrutiny even while abroad.
“As I speak to you, the last report we have is that he’s outside the country and we have not heard from him. We have placed him on watchlist. Anytime he enters Nigeria, NAPTIP will continue the investigation from where we stopped. That is the status of the case for now,” she said.
Amugo’s statement comes amid growing public concern about Speed Darlington’s alleged actions, with many calling for swift enforcement of justice. Observers note that the rapper’s use of social media to evade investigation has raised questions about compliance with legal processes and accountability for public figures.
Earlier reports in July revealed that NAPTIP had placed Speed Darlington on an international watchlist with a N50 million bounty following the expiration of the grace period for his wanted status. This measure was intended to ensure that he would be tracked and apprehended regardless of his location, highlighting the seriousness with which the agency treats allegations involving minors.
The case has sparked discussions nationwide about the responsibilities of influencers and entertainers, especially those with large social media followings, in safeguarding ethical standards and avoiding behavior that could harm minors. Legal experts argue that public figures have a heightened duty to adhere to laws and cooperate with investigations to maintain societal trust.
NAPTIP’s continued vigilance demonstrates the agency’s commitment to protecting vulnerable groups and enforcing legal consequences for alleged offenders. By maintaining Speed Darlington on its watchlist, the agency ensures that the investigation can proceed without delay upon his return to Nigerian jurisdiction.
The agency also emphasized that while the rapper remains outside the country, the watchlist serves as a critical mechanism to prevent evasion and keep the case active until justice is served.
With the international attention surrounding the case, NAPTIP has reassured the public that all available resources will be employed to ensure accountability. The agency’s firm stance underscores the principle that no individual, regardless of social or professional status, is above the law.
As the investigation remains on hold pending Speed Darlington’s return, the rapper’s compliance will determine the pace and outcome of the case, with NAPTIP pledging to continue its efforts to protect minors and uphold justice.
#NAPTIP
#SpeedDarlington
#TrendingNow
No comments:
Post a Comment