The controversial Nigerian entertainer Darlington Okoye, popularly known as Speed Darlington, has become the center of a serious legal and public relations storm.
He reportedly fled Nigeria for the U.S. after being declared wanted by NAPTIP over alleged rape accusations. He responded defiantly, stating he would not return unless paid N2.5 million.
Timeline of Events:
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June 27, 2025: The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) officially declared Speed Darlington wanted over allegations including rape, cyberbullying, and cyberstalking. This followed a viral video in which he allegedly confessed to sexual relations with a 15-year-old girl. Despite multiple summonses issued by NAPTIP for interrogation, the entertainer failed to appear.
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Late June 2025: NAPTIP escalated its pursuit by placing Speed Darlington on an international watchlist and alerting Interpol. The agency also began collaborating with Nigeria Immigration Service, police, and intelligence agencies to track him down. A ₦50 million bounty is reportedly being considered for information leading to his arrest.
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July 1, 2025 (morning): Speed Darlington surfaced online with a defiant video response. He dismissed the allegations as baseless, claiming he had committed no crime and accused the agency of using his case for social media clout. He refused to comply with the summons, stating emphatically, “I’m not coming.” Furthermore, he demanded a ₦2.5 million appearance fee plus round-trip airfare for himself and his personal assistant if he were to appear before the agency, framing the invitation as an “appearance” rather than a legal summons.
This standoff marks a significant escalation in a case that has gripped the Nigerian entertainment and legal communities. Authorities maintain they have exhausted all legal avenues and warn that Speed Darlington remains a wanted man globally. The public is urged to provide any credible information on his whereabouts to law enforcement agencies.
Speed Darlington Career Timeline
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1990s: Began his artistic journey as a professional dancer, performing with the Queen Achakpo band and participating in cultural dance troupes such as the Egedege Dance group from Imo State, Nigeria. This early exposure was influenced by his parents, both traditional musicians.
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2016: Started gaining attention on social media with viral music videos and eccentric, humorous content. He adopted nicknames like “Scorpion King,” “Energy God,” and “Irregular Speedometer,” building a unique persona that blended music, comedy, and social commentary.
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2017: Officially launched his music career with the release of his breakthrough single “Bangdadadang!” This track combined humor and street culture, earning him widespread recognition and establishing him as a rising figure in the Nigerian Afrobeats and hip-hop scene.
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2018: Released the single “Cash & Carry,” which helped solidify his position as a daring and unconventional artist known for blending Afrobeats with comedic elements.
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2019: Collaborated with popular Nigerian artist Zlatan on the track “In Love with My Hand,” marking a significant milestone by working with mainstream artists while maintaining his eccentric style. Also released other notable songs such as “Akamu.”
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2020: Continued his musical output with tracks like “In Eko,” showcasing his ongoing commitment to blending humor, street vibes, and Afrobeat rhythms.
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2021: Released “Ogiriga Owuwa,” further cementing his reputation for quirky yet catchy music.
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2022: Released “Diaspora Fund$,” a song that explored the challenges of diaspora life with a mix of humor and depth, reflecting his international background and experiences.
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2023-2025: Maintained a strong social media presence, combining music releases with viral comedic content and outspoken commentary on social and political issues. His controversial and unpredictable persona continued to polarize audiences, making him a notable figure in Nigerian pop culture.
Throughout his career, Speed Darlington has been known not just for his music but also for his bold, sometimes provocative social media presence, which has earned him both admirers and critics. His fusion of traditional influences from his upbringing with modern Afrobeats and hip-hop, combined with his comedic flair, has made him a distinctive voice in the entertainment industry.
Speed Darlington has collaborated with several notable Nigerian artists throughout his career. Key collaborations include:
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Zlatan and Lord Sky on the energetic track “Hot Slap,” which blends Afrobeats and hip-hop and has been well-received for its catchy rhythm and party vibe.
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London Jay on the song “Olu (Work),” a collaboration that highlights both artists’ lyrical skills and musical synergy.
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He also featured on “Akpi” and “Joanna Amapiano,” among other tracks with various Nigerian musicians, showcasing his versatility across Afrobeat, hip-hop, and highlife genres.
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His 2025 releases include “Owa,” which adds to his growing discography of collaborations with prominent Nigerian artists.
