The Lagos State Government has said it cannot initiate criminal proceedings against singer Simi over allegations circulating online, citing the absence of any formal complaint from an alleged victim.
The Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency, Lola Vivour-Adeniyi, made the clarification during an appearance on a programme on Channels Television on Thursday.
She explained that prosecution in such cases depends on a survivor or direct complainant coming forward with an official report, noting that without this, legal action would be difficult to pursue.
The controversy followed the resurfacing of old social media posts linked to the singer, reportedly made in 2012, which referenced children at her mother’s daycare centre. The posts drew renewed attention after the artiste spoke publicly about sexual assault concerns in Nigeria in response to rape allegations earlier made by a TikTok user, which were later withdrawn as false.
Despite Simi’s explanation that the posts were made when she was younger and assisting at the daycare, some social media users called for authorities to investigate the matter.
In reaction to public concerns, the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons said it is open to examining any credible report submitted, urging individuals with direct knowledge or evidence to come forward.
Vivour-Adeniyi also suggested that the Ogun State Government could conduct preliminary checks, as the alleged events were said to have occurred within its jurisdiction. She emphasized that while authorities have a duty to look into claims that surface publicly, formal documentation from affected persons remains essential before prosecution can begin.
According to her, official reporting is the first step in determining what legal or investigative action may follow.