Controversial Nigerian singer, Darlington Okoye, popularly known as Speed Darlington, has responded to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) over allegations linked to his viral Instagram video, where he appeared to admit to sleeping with a 15-year-old girl.
In a formal letter dated June 2, 2025, and shared publicly via his verified Instagram page on Monday, the entertainer denied all claims, describing the viral video as “purely for entertainment” and insisting he had never been involved in any form of sexual misconduct.
“As a law-abiding citizen and a man raised by martinet parents under the highest ethical and moral standard, I have never engaged in or contemplated involving myself in any form of sexual predation, sexual violation or any form of untoward act against the opposite sex,” he wrote.
He also rejected the interpretation of his comments in the viral clip, saying it was taken out of context by those “looking for fault where none exists.”
“For the sake of clarity, I reiterate that the said Instagram video was made for purely entertainment purposes only and does not reflect any previous or future event involving my person with any female; minor or major,” he stated.
“Sadly, what was meant to be a joke has been blown out of proportion by persons looking for fault where none exists.”
The video, which sparked outrage online last week, led NAPTIP to issue a summons dated May 28, 2025, requesting Speed Darlington to appear at their Abuja headquarters for questioning on May 30.
The agency warned that failure to respond could lead to “further action.”
While he missed the scheduled appearance, Darlington in his letter offered to appear for clarification at a later date.
“If the Agency requires further clarifications, I undertake to avail myself at the Agency’s office on June 26th, 2025.”
Without admitting wrongdoing, the “Village Girl” crooner extended a mild apology for any offence his words may have caused online.
“May I offer my profound apology for any bad blood or misunderstanding my innocuous actions may have caused the online community, but to the discerning, the video was only for clout and entertainment purposes,” he added.
This latest development follows NAPTIP’s Thursday warning that further steps would be taken if Darlington failed to honour the May 30 invitation.
The agency is yet to officially respond to his new letter or indicate if his new proposed appearance date will be accepted.
