In a candid and revealing disclosure, controversial Nigerian artist Speed Darlington, widely known as Akpi, has shared the harrowing details of his life in the United States, stating unequivocally that America did not favour him.
The Painful Reality of the American Dream
Darlington, in a video posted on his Instagram on January 19, 2026, explained that his decision to emigrate, a move popularly termed 'Japa' in Nigerian parlance, nearly ruined him both mentally and physically. He painted a stark picture of his struggles, contrasting sharply with the often-glamorized narrative of life abroad.
The musician recounted facing multiple arrests during his time in the U.S., which left him with a criminal record. He described this record as the primary 'gift' America gave him, an experience that severely drained his confidence and made his existence overseas unbearable.
Isolation, Accent Bias, and a Loss of Self
Further deepening his ordeal was the challenge of social integration. Darlington highlighted how his thick Nigerian accent became a significant barrier, particularly when trying to interact with women. This struggle led him into profound loneliness and forced him to adopt unhealthy coping mechanisms.
He expressed concern about the general treatment of immigrants in America, noting that even white women faced rough handling from immigration officers. He questioned how much more difficult it must be for Africans with distinct accents, suggesting a systemic issue beyond his personal experience.
Rediscovering Value and Confidence in Nigeria
The turning point came with his decision to return to Nigeria. Darlington stated that coming back home restored his sense of self, freedom, and confidence. He emphatically declared that Nigeria favours him, providing him with a value and platform he never found in America.
All his wealth and achievements, he clarified, have come from the support of Nigerians both within the country and in the diaspora, not from his years spent in the United States. This reflection led him to a powerful conclusion: it is better to live freely in Nigeria than to remain trapped in America's rigid system.
So profound is his disillusionment that he is considering relinquishing his American immigration papers, though he admits hesitation due to his mother's presence there.
The revelation sparked significant reactions from netizens, with many praising his honesty. User @uchechukwu_amaefule commented, "At least, he's being very honest. This is the reality of most Africans living in America," while @ferguson_147 noted his consistency and mental strength.
This story follows a previous report where Darlington narrated a betrayal by his trainer ahead of a boxing bout with fellow singer Portable, claiming the neglect contributed to his first-round technical knockout loss.
