The Federal Government has responded to mounting online calls for an investigation into alleged child sexual abuse linked to a daycare centre reportedly owned by the mother of popular Nigerian singer, Simi.
The controversy gained traction on social media following rape allegations made in an unrelated matter by a TikTok user identified as Mirabel. In the wake of that development, some social media users resurfaced old posts made by Simi on X (formerly Twitter), triggering fresh debates and speculation.
In the earlier posts, Simi had spoken out strongly against the growing incidence of sexual violence in Nigeria. She lamented what she described as a pervasive culture of sexual assault, stating that many women she knows had experienced abuse in one form or another.
The singer had also advocated stricter penalties for offenders, suggesting severe punishment for rapists — a position that generated mixed reactions at the time, with some users supporting her stance while others challenged it.
Amid the renewed scrutiny, certain old tweets referencing children at her mother’s daycare resurfaced online, with some social media commentators alleging they implied inappropriate intent.
However, as of the time of reporting, no formal complaint or independently verified evidence has been publicly presented to substantiate the allegations.
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Responding to growing demands for official intervention, the Federal Government, through the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), issued a statement reaffirming its commitment to addressing all credible allegations involving child abuse or exploitation.
In a post shared on its official X handle, the agency urged individuals with verifiable information or direct knowledge of any misconduct to come forward through confidential channels.
NAPTIP reiterated that it remains mandated to protect vulnerable persons, especially children, and would investigate any claim supported by credible evidence. Officials emphasised that all actions would be guided by due process and factual findings.
Observers say the development highlights the growing influence of social media in shaping public narratives, particularly in sensitive matters involving allegations of abuse. They note the importance of balancing public concern with the need for verified facts and proper investigative procedures.
As of press time, neither Simi nor representatives of the daycare centre had issued a fresh statement specifically addressing the resurfaced allegations.
Meanwhile, NAPTIP has encouraged members of the public to channel any concrete evidence through its official and confidential reporting platforms, assuring Nigerians that credible claims will receive appropriate attention.