The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has rescheduled the summons of controversial Nigerian singer, Speed Darlington, to Monday, June 2, 2025, stressing the national urgency surrounding the allegations against him.
The agency’s action follows Darlington’s public admission during an Instagram live session that he had defiled a 15-year-old girl in a hotel. The disturbing revelation has since sparked widespread outrage across social media and among advocacy groups.
Initially summoned to appear at NAPTIP’s headquarters in Abuja on Friday, May 30, Darlington requested a postponement, citing prior commitments and suggesting a new date of June 26. In response, NAPTIP stated the notice given was sufficient and that the matter demanded prompt attention due to its serious nature.
“The issue at hand is a matter of urgent national importance that requires an urgent response,” the agency said in an official statement signed by the Director of Information and Communications Technology, Hakeem Lawal.
The agency clarified that while it cannot accommodate Darlington’s proposed date, it has extended a brief grace period and now expects his presence by 1:00 p.m. on June 2 at its Wuse Zone 5 headquarters in Abuja.
Reiterating the gravity of the issue, NAPTIP emphasized the need for cooperation, stating, “Your cooperation is very critical in this matter.”
The agency also addressed the matter publicly through its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, in reaction to Darlington’s social media message which read:
“Hello, I will not be able to come in today. This is very sudden and urgent for me. I already have commitments and responsibilities. I suggest you should reschedule to next month, June 26. I will be in Abuja that day.”
The controversy has intensified since the initial revelation, with public figures such as Uriel Oputa and Portable condemning the singer’s remarks. NAPTIP’s prompt action, many observers say, underscores its resolve to treat all allegations of child sexual abuse with the seriousness they deserve.
As of press time, there has been no further comment from Speed Darlington or his representatives.
