Controversial Nigerian artist Speed Darlington has formally responded to an invitation by the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons over allegations of sexually abusing a minor, describing the viral video in question as “purely for entertainment.”
In a letter dated June 2, 2025, and titled “RE: INVITATION FOR CLARIFICATION REGARDING ONLINE CONTENT RELATED TO ALLEGED SEXUAL OFFENCES INVOLVING MINORS,” the musician acknowledged NAPTIP’s notice but vehemently denied any wrongdoing.
“I acknowledge receipt of your letter (captioned as above) sent to my Instagram handle on 28th May, 2025, inviting me to offer clarifications on certain online videos you alleged contain admissions of sexual acts (if substantiated) and thus constituting offences under the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act, 2015 and Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act, 2015,” Darlington stated.
The artist, known for his eccentric online persona, insisted that the controversial video was a joke taken out of context. “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 declared.
He further emphasized his role as a public figure, stating, “As a role model, I am alive to my responsibilities in helping to mould lasting moral values amongst our young ones and would never deliberately engage in any form of activity that contravenes this noble responsibility.”
Darlington clarified that the video was meant for clout and entertainment, not as an admission of any crime. “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. Sadly, what was meant to be a joke has been blown out of proportion by persons looking for fault where none exists.”
While maintaining his innocence, the musician offered an apology for any misunderstanding caused by the video. “Without conceding to any wrongdoing, 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 confirmed his willingness to cooperate with NAPTIP, stating, “If the Agency requires further clarifications, I undertake to avail myself at the Agency’s office on June 26, 2025.”
The letter concluded with a polite sign-off: “Whilst thanking you for your understanding, please accept my esteem regards, always.”
NAPTIP had summoned Darlington following public outrage over the video, which allegedly contained suggestive remarks about minors. The agency is expected to review his response before deciding on further action.
