The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has rejected a request from controversial Nigerian entertainer Darlington Okoye, popularly known as Speed Darlington, to appear at its headquarters on June 26, 2025.
The agency insists the matter is of urgent national importance and cannot be delayed.
Okoye was summoned by NAPTIP following a viral Instagram live video in which he allegedly admitted to having sexual relations with a 15-year-old girl.
The video drew widespread condemnation from the public and women’s rights groups, prompting swift intervention by the Lagos State Government, which referred the matter to NAPTIP for investigation.
In response, the agency sent a formal invitation dated May 28, requesting that Okoye present himself for questioning at its Abuja office on May 30 at 9:00 a.m. However, he failed to appear.
Instead, Okoye replied via a written message, citing prior commitments and requesting that the meeting be rescheduled to June 26.
“This is very sudden and urgent for me. I already have commitments and responsibilities,” he wrote.
NAPTIP responded with a firm rejection of the proposed date.
In a letter signed by the agency’s Director of Information and Communications Technology and Cybercrime Coordinator, Hakeem Lawal, the agency emphasized that the original invitation allowed sufficient notice and that the issue required immediate attention.
“You are further given till Monday, June 2, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. to appear in person at the NAPTIP Headquarters, 2028 Dalaba Crescent, Wuse Zone 5, Abuja,” the letter stated. “Your cooperation is critical.”
Despite this extension, Okoye again failed to show up. Sources within the agency, who requested anonymity, confirmed that legal action is now being considered, as Okoye has missed two scheduled appearances.
“He has responded on two occasions with excuses. We will not work with his timing. No one is above the law,” one official said.
Another source explained that the agency is consulting relevant departments and weighing legal implications before deciding on its next steps.
They also acknowledged recent delays in the judicial system due to a strike, which has only recently been called off.
Meanwhile, NAPTIP’s Chief Press Officer, Vincent Adekoye, confirmed that the agency is coordinating with other law enforcement bodies to ensure that Okoye does not evade justice.
“We are working with sister agencies to ensure his appearance. NAPTIP is proactive and is exploring all options to make sure he answers for his statements. We’re not taking chances,” Adekoye said.
The case remains under close review as the agency prepares to take decisive action.