Speed Darlington Faces Backlash Over Controversial Statement in Viral Livestream
Nigerian entertainer Speed Darlington, popularly known as Akpi, is facing heavy criticism following a controversial statement made during a recent livestream. The outspoken artist appeared to make a disturbing claim that quickly went viral, leading to public outrage and scrutiny from advocacy groups.
In the aftermath of the backlash, Speed Darlington took to social media to address the situation, stating that the comments he made were not based in reality but rather an attempt to draw attention to his new song.
“Fans, followers have been upset at me for making that video,” he said. “This is for all of you — I’m an artiste and I need controversy to eat. If your name isn’t relevant, you don’t get booked. Nobody books someone who isn’t trending, and I have a new song, and the song is about adult themes.”
He explained that his music often touches on provocative topics and that his approach to marketing relies heavily on stirring conversation. “This is my genre,” he said. “When I drop songs that are bold, I need content to push it. That’s what I was doing — selling my market.”
Though he offered a brief apology to anyone who felt offended by his words, many fans and commentators online found the explanation insufficient. “If any of you are offended, apologies,” he added. “If a million people want to be artistes, you have to stand out and be different. That’s what I was doing.”
The statement has sparked serious conversations online about the responsibilities that public figures hold, particularly when it comes to the content they share with large audiences. Many social media users have condemned the tactic of using provocative claims as a promotional tool, urging creators to consider the broader impact of their messages.
In response to the public concern, the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) has stated it is reviewing the matter. The agency emphasized the importance of public figures using their platforms responsibly and discouraging content that can be seen as harmful or misleading.
While Speed Darlington insists his words were not meant to be taken literally, the incident has ignited a wider discussion about the limits of publicity and the ethical lines that entertainers should not cross — even in the name of promotion.
