Trouble is brewing for Nigerian singer Speed Darlington after he claimed to have had a sexual encounter with a 15-year-old girl.
The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) said on Wednesday, May 28, that it has launched an investigation into the case.
Similarly, the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) addressed the matter, although it noted the limitations of its jurisdiction, as the exact location of the incident remains unknown.
The agency subsequently referred the case to NAPTIP for investigation.
Responding today, NAPTIP wrote on X that its Cybercrime Response Team had begun analysing the viral video along with other related content attributed to the singer.
“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 said.
LAGOS STATE WADES IN
The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) says it has referred Speed Darlington’s “confession” to sex NAPTIP.
Speed Darlington allegedly confessed to sleeping with a 15-year-old girl in a hotel during his Instagram live video, which went viral on social media on Tuesday.
HOW IT ALL BEGAN
The controversial singer claimed he had sexual relations with a 15-year-old girl, and he gave her ₦2,000 afterwards, following bloodstains on the bedsheet.
Narrating the incident, Speed Darlington said: “Because the thing dey somehow to tell an adult to come and clean blood that I brought out of the body of a 15-year-old girl. I can never work for anybody; I only work for myself. “Before they could come to change the sheets for me, I dash am N2000.”
This propelled outrage from netizens and social media influencers, as many of them requested authorities’ intervention in what they tagged ‘rape’.
LAGOS DSVA REACTS
Responding to the video in an X post, Lagos DSVA said: “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.
“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.” The body clarified.
Speaking further on its efforts to investigate the issue, the body said: “Given 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). @naptipnigeria”
”The Lagos State Government reaffirms our zero-tolerance stance against all forms of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence. It will continue to advocate for accountability and protecting every Nigerian child.” Lagos DSVA reiterated.
The body also stated, “If you have any information that may assist with ongoing investigations, kindly contact us via our toll-free line 08000-333-333 or send a direct message on our official social media platforms.
“You may also contact NAPTIP directly via email: [email protected] or phone: 07030000203. Lastly, we appreciate the vigilance of citizens who brought this to our attention and urge the public to continue reporting such cases through the appropriate legal channels.” Lagos DSVA wrote.
