Speed Darlington Akpi, born Darlington Okoye on March 13, 1989, is a dynamic Nigerian-American rapper and social media sensation. Hailing from Arondizougu in Imo State, Nigeria, he is known for his captivating blend of music and comedy, which has garnered him a dedicated fan base both locally and internationally.
Profile
- Real Name: Darlington Okoye
- Stage Name: Speed Darlington (Akpi)
- Age: 35 years old (as of 2024)
- Date of Birth: March 13, 1989
- Gender: Male
- Occupation: Rapper, Songwriter, Social Media Influencer, Comedian
- Marital Status: Single
- Religion: Christianity
- Ethnicity: Igbo
- State of Origin: Imo State, Nigeria
- Nationality: Nigerian
- Net Worth: Estimated between $100,000 to $500,000
Biography
Speed Darlington was born on March 13, 1989, in Arondizougu, Ideato North, Imo State, Nigeria, into a family deeply rooted in music and cultural traditions. His father, the late Mr. Pericoma Okoye, was a legendary Igbo musician and traditionalist, while his mother, Queen Theresa Onuorah, is a revered high-life singer known for leading the Egedege Dance group. This rich musical heritage played a significant role in shaping Speed Darlington’s artistic journey, blending his family’s legacy with his modern, unconventional style.
Although Darlington’s upbringing was heavily influenced by traditional music, his own career took a different path as he incorporated rap, comedy, and social media engagement into his artistic expression. Over time, his distinctive style has set him apart, earning him a devoted following that appreciates his bold and unapologetic approach.
Educational Background
Speed Darlington received his early education in Imo State, where he attended both primary and secondary school. He later furthered his education at the University of Lagos, where he studied Business Administration. Even while pursuing academic goals, Speed was always drawn to the entertainment industry, balancing his university studies with a burgeoning interest in performance arts and music.
Career
Speed Darlington’s journey into entertainment began with dance, specifically his involvement in the Egedege Dance group led by his mother, Queen Theresa Onuorah. However, it wasn’t long before he transitioned into the music scene around 2017, marking his entry into rap with a vibrant and comedic twist. His breakout singles like “Popping Heavy,” “Cash And Carry,” “In Love With My Hands” (featuring Zlatan Ibile), and “Diaspora Funds” highlighted his ability to create catchy, relatable, and often humorous songs.
Despite criticism from some quarters for his unconventional style, Speed Darlington has stayed true to his unique voice, crafting a brand that blends audacious humor with infectious beats. His persona has expanded beyond music, making him a social media sensation where his entertaining skits, bold statements, and online feuds continue to stir public interest.
Recent Controversy and Disappearance
Recently, Speed Darlington found himself at the center of a growing controversy after making provocative comments about Nigerian music superstar Burna Boy. Darlington taunted Burna Boy over American music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs’ arrest, insinuating that Burna Boy had some association with the incident.
Following his statements, Speed Darlington’s fans began to worry when the rapper went completely silent on social media for over three days, an unusual occurrence given his typically active online presence. The silence has sparked rumors that his sudden disappearance may be linked to the remarks he made about Burna Boy, with many fans speculating that the tension escalated into something more serious.
As of now, Speed Darlington has been declared missing, with his supporters and fans expressing growing concern over his safety. The lack of updates or communication from him has only fueled speculations, leaving many to wonder whether his disappearance is tied to his recent outspoken behavior.
Awards
In 2023, Speed Darlington was honored with the African American Rapper of the Year award at the I-See Awards, cementing his place as a standout figure in both the Nigerian and American entertainment spaces. His win highlighted not just his music, but his influence as an entertainer who effortlessly merges Nigerian and American pop culture.
Personal Life
Despite his public persona, Speed Darlington has shared personal details about his life, particularly his admiration for popular Nigerian actresses such as Tonto Dikeh, Nancy Isime, and Tiwa Savage. He’s also opened up about his family, specifically his complex relationship with his late father, Mr. Pericoma Okoye. While acknowledging his father’s influence on his life, Speed has expressed some bitterness towards him, referring to the strained dynamic between them.
Nevertheless, his mother, Queen Theresa Onuorah, remains a positive figure in his life, having supported his early artistic development.
Family Background
Speed Darlington’s parents are both icons in their own right. His father, Mr. Pericoma Okoye, was a renowned musician and traditionalist whose legacy in the Igbo community remains influential. His mother, Queen Theresa Onuorah, is a well-respected highlife musician who gained recognition for leading the Egedege Dance group, an institution known for promoting Igbo culture and music. Although Speed’s parents never had a harmonious relationship, their individual contributions to Nigerian music undoubtedly shaped his career.
Age
As of 2024, Speed Darlington is 35 years old, born on March 13, 1989.
Net Worth
Speed Darlington’s net worth is estimated to be between $100,000 and $500,000. His wealth comes primarily from his music, social media engagement, brand endorsements, and assets such as houses and cars.
Social Media Handles
Speed Darlington remains active on social media, where he shares his thoughts, engages with fans, and promotes his music:
- Facebook: Speed Darlington
- Instagram: @speeddarlintv
- Twitter: @SpeedDarlingTV
- TikTok: @Speed Darlington
- YouTube: SpeedDarlingtonTv
Discography
- Popping Heavy
- My Girl
- Cash And Carry
- Engineer
- Bad Girl
- Saturday Night
- My Party
- Hustle Hard
- Let’s Dance
- 50 Inches Or Better
- Bangdadadang
- In Love With My Hands (featuring Zlatan Ibile)
- Diaspora Funds
FAQs
Did Burna Boy Has Hand In Speed Darlington Missing?
No as it hasn’t been confirmed yet.
As of 2024, Speed Darlington is 35 years old, born on March 13, 1989.
Why was Speed Darlington declared missing?
Speed Darlington has been missing for over three days following an online controversy after taunting Burna Boy over Diddy’s arrest. Fans have speculated that his disappearance may be related to his recent comments, though no official information has been released.