NAPTIP Places Speed Darlington on International Watchlist, Considers N50m Bounty Over Alleged Rape Confession

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) announced on Monday that it has intensified efforts to apprehend Nigerian entertainer Darlington Okoye, known as Speed Darlington, by placing him on an international watchlist and alerting Interpol.

This follows his failure to respond to multiple summonses regarding an online confession of engaging in sexual activity with a 15-year-old girl. NAPTIP is reportedly considering a N50m bounty on Okoye after the wanted status matures, according to sources.

The agency has collaborated with the Nigeria Immigration Service, the Police, the Department of State Services, and Interpol to ensure his apprehension. Vincent Adekoye, NAPTIP’s Chief Press Officer, confirmed in an interview with The PUNCH that Okoye was given ample opportunity to comply but failed to do so.

On June 27, NAPTIP declared Okoye wanted for alleged offenses including rape, cyberbullying, and cyberstalking. A public notice on NAPTIP’s Instagram (@officialnaptip) urged anyone with information on his whereabouts to contact the agency at 07030000203 or info@naptip.gov.ng.

In response, Okoye defiantly claimed in a YouTube video on Monday that he committed no crime, dismissing the allegations as a publicity stunt by NAPTIP for “social media clout.” He demanded a N2.5m appearance fee and accused the agency of psychological manipulation, asserting there was no evidence against him.

The controversy stems from a viral Instagram livestream where Okoye described sexual activity with a minor, prompting public outrage. NAPTIP issued summonses for May 30 and June 2, 2025, which Okoye ignored.

He proposed appearing on June 26, but the agency rejected this, citing the urgency of the matter. Okoye also failed to appear on his suggested date. Adekoye emphasized that NAPTIP followed legal procedures, including obtaining a court order to watchlist Okoye, designating him a Person of Concern.

The agency advised him to turn himself in, warning that his wanted status extends beyond Nigeria. An anonymous official questioned Okoye’s refusal to appear if he is innocent, while another revealed plans for a potential N50m bounty, pending legal approval, to incentivize tip-offs after the wanted status period elapses.