The agency had accused the singer of alleged rape, cyberbullying, and cyberstalking via its official Instagram page.
ABUJA — Controversial singer Darlington Achakpo Okoye, popularly known as Speed Darlington, has sued the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) for defamation after the agency declared him wanted.
In a suit filed on July 9 at the Federal High Court in Abuja, Speed Darlington is demanding ₦3 billion in damages and a perpetual injunction to prevent NAPTIP from enforcing the June 27 wanted notice. The agency had accused the singer of alleged rape, cyberbullying, and cyberstalking via its official Instagram page.
The suit claims the declaration was baseless and harmful to his reputation and safety. A viral video appeared to show someone resembling the singer admitting to intercourse with a minor, prompting a referral by the Lagos DSVA to NAPTIP.
While NAPTIP has insisted on his appearance for questioning, Speed Darlington maintains the incident was a prank, part of “artistic controversy,” and has apologized to those offended.
* “The declaration was baseless and harmed his safety and reputation,” the suit claims.
* “Darlington Okoye, aka Speed Darlington, is wanted in connection with alleged offences,” NAPTIP posted.
* “He clarified that his controversial statements were part of promoting his work.”
* “The singer is demanding ₦3 billion and a court injunction against NAPTIP.”
* “Despite his claim it was a prank, NAPTIP insists he appear for questioning.”