Controversial singer and social media personality, Speed Darlington, has officially responded to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) after missing an earlier invitation to clarify a viral video in which he appeared to claim an intimate encounter with a 15-year-old girl.
Amid mounting public backlash, Speed Darlington, through his legal counsel, has informed the agency of his willingness to appear at NAPTIP’s Abuja office on June 26, 2025, for further clarification on the matter.
NAPTIP had initially invited the singer for questioning last week, citing concerns that the video could amount to an admission of a criminal offense. After he failed to honour the first summons, a follow-up invitation was issued for June 2.
In a statement released on Instagram, his legal team emphasized that the video in question was purely intended for entertainment and online attention—commonly referred to as “clout”—and not a reflection of actual events. Addressing the Director-General of NAPTIP, the letter stated:
“I acknowledge receipt of your letter sent via Instagram on May 28, 2025, inviting me to clarify videos allegedly containing admissions of sexual acts that may be considered offenses under the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act, 2015, and the Cybercrime Act, 2015.”
Speed Darlington further stressed his moral upbringing and stated that he had never engaged in nor considered any form of sexual misconduct. He identified himself as a role model aware of his influence on youth and reiterated that the video was entirely fictional.
“The video was meant for entertainment purposes only and does not depict any real incident involving myself or any individual, whether minor or adult,” the statement clarified.
The singer also extended an apology to the public for any confusion or offense caused by the video, maintaining that he had done nothing wrong:
“Without admitting any wrongdoing, I sincerely apologize for any discomfort or misinterpretation the video may have caused. It was purely a clout-chasing skit and not meant to be taken seriously.”
He concluded the statement by confirming his readiness to cooperate with the agency:
“If the agency still seeks clarification, I am willing to appear at your office on June 26, 2025.”
The controversy has once again raised broader questions about social media content, celebrity influence, and the blurred lines between satire and harmful messaging. NAPTIP has not yet issued an official response to the singer’s latest communication.
