The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) has called on authorities in Ogun State to open a formal inquiry into allegations circulating online involving Nigerian singer Simi.
Speaking during an appearance on Morning Brief on Channels Television, the agency’s Executive Secretary, Lola Vivour-Adeniyi, stressed that the matter should not be ignored.
She said authorities have a responsibility to initiate at least a preliminary review of the claims that have surfaced.
According to her, while public conversations have intensified, the absence of direct testimony from any alleged victim poses a major challenge to potential prosecution.
A Difficult Proceedings
She explained that legal proceedings would be difficult without a survivor willing to come forward and provide evidence.
Vivour-Adeniyi therefore appealed to anyone who may have experienced abuse, assault, aggression, or related misconduct to report formally to the appropriate bodies.
She noted that the first step is documentation and statement-taking, which would help determine the direction of any possible investigation.
Meanwhile, the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has also responded to the renewed public debate.
The agency announced plans to examine credible allegations of child abuse or misconduct in daycare centres across Nigeria.
The controversy resurfaced after social media users revisited old posts made by Simi about assisting at her mother’s daycare facility in 2012 and 2013.
The renewed scrutiny followed her recent online comments condemning rape culture, which prompted some users to question the context of her earlier statements.
While critics described portions of the old posts as inappropriate, others defended the singer, arguing that the remarks reflected innocent, everyday interactions with children.
The Clarification
In a public clarification, Simi maintained that she was 23 at the time and not yet in the spotlight, adding that her comments were meant to describe playful and affectionate moments with children under her care.
Despite the explanation, calls for official oversight persisted, with some members of the public urging regulators to review childcare standards and practices.
In a statement issued Tuesday, NAPTIP reaffirmed its commitment to probing any credible report of abuse in childcare environments.
The agency encouraged individuals with direct knowledge, evidence, or personal experience related to the claims to come forward confidentially via its official X account or through its designated email channel.
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The development marks a growing institutional response to concerns raised online, as authorities weigh the next steps amid public demand for clarity and accountability.