Prosecuting Simi Will Be Challenging, Says Lagos Government in Video Statement

Simi 

Officials from the Lagos State Government have clarified that they cannot pursue legal action against music artist Simi regarding recent online allegations due to the absence of a formal complaint from an alleged victim.

Lola Vivour-Adeniyi, Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency, emphasized this point during a recent appearance on Morning Brief aired by Channels Television.

She reiterated that initiating a prosecution without direct testimony from a survivor or complainant would prove challenging.

Online discussions flared after decade-old social media posts connected to Simi resurfaced, drawing scrutiny. Critics claimed the 2012 posts referenced interactions with children at her mother’s daycare facility.

The renewed attention came after Simi discussed Nigeria’s sexual assault concerns amid TikToker Mirabel’s now-retracted rape accusations.

While Mirabel later admitted fabricating her claims, conversations shifted to Simi’s archival posts, with some interpreting a specific exchange involving a child as problematic.

Public demand for an official inquiry escalated, prompting Simi to address the backlash.

She clarified that the posts were created when she was in her early twenties while assisting at her mother’s daycare.

Despite her explanation, calls for an investigation persisted across digital platforms.

NAPTIP, Nigeria’s anti-trafficking agency, publicly invited individuals with firsthand knowledge or evidence to submit reports for review.

The agency’s social media statement affirmed its readiness to assess credible submissions.

Vivour-Adeniyi recommended that the Ogun State Government conduct an initial inquiry, as the alleged events reportedly transpired within its jurisdiction.

While acknowledging the need for authorities to review publicized claims, she stressed that legal proceedings require official statements from affected parties.

“Regarding the online allegations involving Simi, we must acknowledge the public discourse,” Vivour-Adeniyi said. “However, litigation hinges on documented complaints from direct survivors.”