By Atafo Igbinedion-
LAGOS — The Lagos State Government has formally reported musician Darlington Okoye, popularly known as Speed Darlington, to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) over allegations of child rape.
The move comes after a video went viral showing Speed Darlington allegedly confessing during an Instagram Live session to having sexual relations with an underage girl — sparking public outrage across Nigeria.
In an official statement, the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) confirmed it had escalated the matter to federal authorities.
“The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) is aware of the disturbing video currently circulating online, in which a popular entertainer allegedly admits to engaging in unlawful sexual activity with a minor,” the agency said on its X (formerly Twitter) handle.
While the livestream did not reveal where the alleged incident took place, the DSVA emphasized that its powers are limited to Lagos State.
“While the individual in question did not specify the location of the incident during the Instagram Live session, we must clarify that the DSVA’s jurisdiction is limited to Lagos State.
In view of the above, and in line with our commitment to justice, we have escalated the situation to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP),” the statement added.
The DSVA urged the public to come forward with any helpful information, stressing the state’s zero-tolerance policy on sexual and gender-based violence.
“If you have any information that may assist with ongoing investigations, kindly reach out to us via our toll-free line 08000-333-333 or send a direct message on any of our official social media platforms. You may also contact NAPTIP directly via email: info@naptip.gov.ng or phone: 07030000203,” the agency appealed.
Responding swiftly, NAPTIP announced that its Cybercrime Response Team had launched an investigation.
“The NAPTIP Cybercrime Response Team has commenced investigations into the disturbing Instagram Live video and other videos made by the same individual. We at NAPTIP are committed to a world where children are safe and free from all forms of violence,” the agency posted on its official X handle.
The allegations have ignited widespread calls for accountability, with civil society groups, online communities, and concerned citizens demanding that authorities act decisively.
This case is still under investigation, and as of now, Speed Darlington has not publicly responded to the allegations.
