Controversial Nigerian rapper Speed Darlington has dragged the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) to court, accusing the agency of infringing on his fundamental human rights after declaring him wanted.
NAPTIP declared the artist wanted on June 27, citing allegations of rape, cyberbullying, and cyberstalking, after he failed to honor an official invitation for questioning. The move followed a viral video in which Darlington appeared to boast about having sexual relations with a 15-year-old girl, sparking widespread outrage. He later recanted, claiming the story was fictional.
In the suit filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja, Darlington argued that NAPTIP’s action was “unlawful, illegal, and unconstitutional,” as it lacked a court order. He alleged violations of his rights to personal liberty, privacy, freedom of movement, and protection from inhuman and degrading treatment.
The rapper is demanding ₦1 billion in general damages and ₦2 billion in punitive damages, with an additional 5% monthly interest until full payment. He also seeks a public apology from NAPTIP and a permanent injunction restraining the agency from acting on the declaration.
